NELSON DEAN GRINDSTAFF

Nelson Dean Grindstaff, 88, of Lansing, KS passed away on Friday, August 14, 2020 at the Dwight D. Eisenhower Medical Center.
He was born on September 19, 1931 in Redding, IA to Lester and Meda (Stuck) Grindstaff. After graduation he enlisted in the US Army on October 24, 1949. While stationed in Germany, he met his future wife, Anna, as she was window shopping with her friends and Nelson walking down the street with his army buddies. This meeting was an example of true love at first sight as Anna didn’t speak English and he didn’t speak German, but they managed to date and they were married on February 17, 1955. When his tour was completed, he brought his bride to the states. When Nelson was assigned to another location, Anna stayed with her mother-in-law, where she learned to speak English. When he re-enlisted again on January 22, 1965 he was assigned at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii as a Drill Sgt. Nelson retired on October 31, 1969 completing 20 years of military service as the rank of SFC. He then went to work as a security guard for the Department of Corrections (USP) in 1971, retiring again in 1991. Nelson enjoyed tinkering around his garage, camping and fishing.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Roland Grindstaff. He is survived by his wife, Anna, of 65 years of blessed marriage. Daughter, Karen Halvorsen, and her husband, Grant, son, Gerry Grindstaff, and his wife, Sarisa. Sisters, Sherry Hebensperger and Beatrice Scroggie and sister-in-law, Linda Grindstaff. Two grandchildren, Baylee Grindstaff and Anjelika Surprise.
Per his request, there will be no visitation or viewing. Graveside services with military honors will be Tuesday, August 25, 2020 at the Leavenworth National Cemetery with Pastor Cape Rust, officiating at 11:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his name may be directed to any local veteran’s organizations.
Belden Larkin Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.