We Remember

NELSON, Earl Leroy

September 28, 1937 — January 24, 2026

Earl Leroy Nelson passed away January 24, 2026, peacefully, with family by his side.

Born September 28, 1937, in Edfield, SK, Earl was the youngest of 13 children.

Growing up on the family farm, Earl knew about hard work and learned that resilience and a steady approach got the job done, which remained with him throughout his life.  He was very close to his brothers and his cousin Larry, spending a lot of time together even as they got older.

In 1961, he married Helen Briltz in Regina, SK and had three children: Terry (Peter), Doyle, and Wendi.  In April 1972, Earl and Helen moved to Kelowna, BC, where they built their life around good friends, travelling to Arizona, camping, and gardening.  He was a master carpenter by trade, and building houses became his career.

Earl was well-liked and was always ready to help a friend out or share a whiskey or beer after a day of hard work.

Earl leaves behind his wife Helen; his three children; his grandchildren Riley, Ryan, Kailey, Naika and Randee; a great-grandson Devon; his beloved dog Lenny; and many extended family members.

Memorial donations may be sent to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.

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The Heart and Stroke Foundation Link: www.heartandstroke.ca

 


 


Condolences

  • Susan and Lawrence Mack says:

    Our condolences to you, Helen and family, on Earls passing. We have many great memories of him during our days in Yuma. Sincerely, Susan and Lawrence

  • Ronda West says:

    My condolences to Auntie Helen and Family.

  • Debbie (West) Fedak says:

    Our sincerest condolences to the family. Uncle Curly was a fun loving, caring man. I’m happy we were able to visit in Kelowna a few years ago.

  • Fred Seyfert says:

    Sorry to hear about uncle Curley passing. My condolences to Helen and his kids

  • Sharon Nelson says:

    Our condolences to Auntie Helen and family. thinking of you at this difficult time. I would like to share this photo. (Dated December 1955 )

  • Aldona Rowe says:

    My thoughts when I think of you and Earl always go to Yuma and the fun we had there. I am so sorry to hear of Earl passing. He was a great friend.
    Love Aldona

  • Sheryn West says:

    My condolences to Auntie Helen, Terry, Doyle, Wendi and families. I have lots of good memories of when you would come to the farm when we were kids…and some from a few years ago in Estevan (when we weren’t kids). I will never forget the way Uncle Curly, Uncle Roger, Uncle Harold and Uncle Kelvin all said my name (they all sounded exactly the same, and made it special somehow).

  • Len and Nettie Schafer says:

    Dear Helen, Terry, Wendy and Doyal,
    We send our deepest condolences on the passing of Earl. “Curly” will be remembered for being a master carpenter, a hardworking business partner and most of all a lifelong friend. I have many memories to cherish of him as I’ve known him from the time we lived in Saskatchewan. When Earl moved his family to Kelowna, we formed our construction company: L and E Enterprises and built many custom homes in Kelowna and Glenrosa. Earl was a hard worker and builder; creating homes with tremendous skill, hard work and integrity. I am fortunate to have known Earl for many years and to have called him a friend. Rest in Peace, Earl. You will be sorely missed and remembered.

  • Carole Carpenter says:

    Cliff has great memories of playing with Uncle Curly and the toys he made for them. We are thinking of you all.

  • Loretta says:

    To Helen , Terry, Wendy, Doyle and rest of the family
    We were all so sorry to hear the passing of your father I use to call him uncle Curly. We have lots of memories and fun times in Regina and the cottage as well as visiting all of you in Kelowna. We will miss him. Our deepest sympathies to all of you.
    Love Loretta and family

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