Francis Nelson, age 63, of Belcourt, ND passed away on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at Quentin Burdick Memorial Health Care Facility, Belcourt, ND.

Francis B. Nelson was born on July 27, 1962 in Belcourt, ND to Michael "Mike" Sr. and Gladys (DeLong) Nelson.  He was raised in Belcourt and completed graduated from Belcourt High School.  Francis furthered his education at trade school in Ardmore, OK.  Francis worked many jobs throughout his life including carpentry, maintenance, and horseshoe repair by trade.  He was a loving father and grandfather; especially loving time spent with his grandchildren, Dahlton Jr., Soren, and Stormie.  Francis loved time outdoors with his horses, going to horse races, fishing, and hunting.  He was a basketball coach for many years and was a social butterfly, engaging in conversation with many the many people he came in contact with. Francis loved his family dearly and will be deeply missed by them in return.

Francis is survived by his daughters, Savannah Poitra of Belcourt and Shelby Keplin of Mandan; six grandchildren, Dahlton Poitra Jr., Soren Poitra, Stormie Poitra, Tucker Keplin, KoDee Keplin, and TayLani Keplin; siblings, Roberta (Wally) DeCoteau of Belcourt, Barbara (Nick Wilkie) Nelson of Belcourt, Michael Jr. (Cindy) Nelson of Belcourt, Debbie (Mark) Simms of Chester, VA, Peggy (Bruno) Johnson of Belcourt, and Lisa Nelson of Belcourt; and many nieces and nephews.

Francis was preceded in death by his parents, Michael "Mike" Sr. and Gladys Nelson and nephew, Keaton DeCoteau.

Casket Bearers are Steve Herman Jr., Wally DeCoteau Jr., Mark "June" Simms, Dylan DeCoteau, Michael Nelson Jr., Kadyn DeCoteau, and Keon Laducer.  Honorary Bearers are Stuart LaFountain, Shane Martin, Ronnie Belgarde, Robby Wilson, Robby Parisien, Isaiah Johnson, Kevin Keplin, Terry "Tubby" Wallette, brother's-in-law, and nephews. Eucharistic Gifts by Aislyn DeCoteau and his grandchildren, Dahlton Jr., Soren, and Stormie Poitra. Readers are Roberta DeCoteau and Perry LaFountain. Rosary led by his sister's.  Music by Chad Marcellais, Terry Baker, and family friends.

A Visitation will begin at 5:00 PM on Thursday, May 14, 2026 at St. Ann's Catholic Church, Belcourt, ND with a Rosary Service at 7:00 PM.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday, May 15, 2026 at St. Ann's Catholic Church, Belcourt, ND.  Burial will follow in St. Ann's Catholic Cemetery, Belcourt, ND. A meal will follow funeral services at LaDot's Hall, Belcourt, ND.

Elick Funeral Home, Rolla, ND.