Nels Ernest Vicklund

Nels Ernest Vicklund, 70, passed away Tuesday, September 29, 2020, at the Wyoming Retirement Center in Basin, Wyo., after a period of failing health.

The adopted son of Dr. Nels and Freda Vicklund, he was born February 17, 1950, in Park County, Wyo. Graduating from high school in 1968, he earned an Associate Degree at Rocky Mountain Technical College in Denver.

Nels served in the US Army and after his discharge, served in the Wyoming National Guard for 16 years. For years he was employed at Chopping Chevrolet as a mechanic and service manager. He established Vicklund Car Clinic in 1991 until he had a major stroke in 2014. He established Vicklund Auto Body in 2000, now Finishing Touches.

On August 6, 1988, he married the love of his life, Kathleen Sue McClelland-Halbert in Thermopolis where they raised their children.

Nels accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior in 1989, being mentored by Pastor Jon Eldridge. A member of First Baptist Church, Nels assisted with the AWANAS youth program. For a time, he attended Community Federated Church serving on committees in both churches.

He enjoyed cooking, 4-wheeling, boating, was an avid fan of the National Hot Rod Association, supported the Hot Spot Car Rally, and had a tender heart for animals.

He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Kathy, of Thermopolis; brother, Jon Vicklund of Kirkland, Wash., sister, Carol (Marton) Bivens of Thermopolis; stepchildren, Matthew Halbert V of Casper and Lara Halbert, of Casper; and step-grandchildren, Daiyton and Kinlee DeLeon. 

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Elaine; and sister-in-law, Debbie Vicklund.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Mortimore Funeral Home is assisting the family and messages may be offered at http://www.mortfh.com.