January 28, 1941 – September 17, 2025
Charles City – Gale Howard Nielsen, 84, of Charles City, formerly of Greenfield, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 18, 2025, surrounded by those who loved him most.
Born January 28, 1941, in Greenfield, Gale grew up in Adair County alongside his brother, Keith, in the care of their parents, Howard “Pete” and Grace (Lewis) Nielsen. From an early age, Gale carried a spark of curiosity that would never leave him. That spark led him into the United States Air Force, and later into his career as a draftsman, a trade that suited his sharp mind, steady hands, and eye for detail.
But Gale was never defined by work alone. He was a tinkerer through and through, happiest when he had something to take apart, polish, or fine-tune. Rocks found their way into tumblers, cars and motorcycles into his garage, and his beloved “Mellow Yellow” Camaro drag car onto the track. He liked to keep his hands busy, his mind engaged, and his stories flowing, always told with a touch of his quirky humor that kept family and friends laughing.
The outdoors was another of Gale’s sanctuaries. Whether camping under the stars, planting a garden, or simply mowing the yard, he found peace in the rhythm of nature. Animals, too, had a special place in his heart, and his dogs and cats were true companions who shared his days.
On June 13, 1999, Gale married Eleanor “Ellie” (Buttjer) Van Hauen at West St. Charles Methodist Church. Together, they blended their families and built a home where laughter was easy and love was steady. Family was the center of Gale’s world. He was a devoted husband, proud bonus dad, and a grandfather who never missed a chance to cheer on his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Whether celebrating their accomplishments or sharing in everyday moments, he delighted in being part of their lives.
Those who knew Gale will remember his stories, his warmth, and the way he made life more fun just by being himself.
Gale is survived by his wife, Ellie; bonus children, Billie (Dawn) Van Hauen Jr., Annette (David) Hadley, Jolene Van Hauen, and Tim Van Hauen; 11 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; extended family; and many friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Pete and Grace; his brother, Keith; and his grandsons, Garrett and Drew.
And while Gale has laid down his tools for the last time, those who loved him know he is already tinkering away on something new, probably with a pocket full of rocks, a car engine to fine-tune, and a story on the tip of his tongue.
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