A proud and dedicated member of the Morgan Park community, Carl Nelson moved from across the St. Louis River to the Riverfront Community in 2003. He, along with his wife, Debbie Isabell Nelson, participates in nearly every community event and program. His infectious smile, love for the community, open arms to new community members, and quiet leadership have made him a pillar of the community. While his selfless commitment often goes unnoticed, Carl has never been one to seek praise or recognition.Carl is a diehard Packers fan, poet, and author of Packers “Verses” Vikings, a collection of his football-related poetry. Carl also spent 24 years working at St. Luke’s Hospital as a Staff Nurse and Staff Development Facilitator. Often a behind-the-scenes worker in the community, Carl ensures that events run smoothly and takes initiative to get things done.
He often writes articles and songs about Duluth and Morgan Park, and creates photo displays for the Community Club, NHS, and Duluth LISC. Whether he is mowing neglected boulevards, working with his close personal friend Santa Claus at the annual Breakfast with Santa, Citizen Patrolling, picking up litter, or inspiring Morgan Park Middle School students, Carl goes the extra mile every time.
Carl has been involved with the “Mini Makeover” in Morgan Park, the U.S. Steel landmark gears project, the new playground initiative, Morgan Park Service Learning, the Disc Golf course, and “Everybody Outside”, a partnership with UMD.
Carl’s enthusiasm, hard work, and kind spirit has inspired countless Morgan Parkers to help clean up Morgan Park, improve community gardens, plan for the future of the neighborhood, and inspire the next generation to take hold of their futures. He’s a firm believer in Morgan Park and can’t imagine living anywhere else.
