Gayle Nelson 89 And Joan Wisneski 88 Obituary, Death; Explosion At Hermantown Housing Complex Kills 2 Residents
Hermantown is mourning after a devastating explosion tore through a quiet housing complex, claiming the lives of Gayle Nelson, 89, and Joan Wisneski, 88, two longtime residents whose deaths have left the community heartbroken. What began as a peaceful Saturday evening turned into tragedy when an explosion rocked the Green Acres housing complex at 5064 Jennifer Circle around 6:20 p.m. on January 31.
The blast sent shockwaves through the multi-unit complex, prompting an immediate emergency response. Fire crews from Hermantown were quickly joined by teams from Duluth, Proctor, and the 148th Air Guard Fire Department as thick smoke and flames engulfed one six-unit building. While firefighters successfully contained the fire to that structure, nearby buildings suffered damage from the force of the explosion, according to city officials.
Tragically, two residents were found deceased. On Sunday, authorities identified them as Gayle Nelson and Joan Wisneski, both in their late 80s. No additional injuries were reported, but the emotional toll has been profound. Neighbors described Gayle and Joan as kind, familiar faces—women who represented the heart and history of the Green Acres community.
In the aftermath, residents were evacuated as a precaution. Many were allowed to return to their homes around midnight, while others received immediate support from St. Louis County Emergency Management and the American Red Cross, which helped arrange temporary housing and essential aid.
The cause of the explosion remains under investigation by the Minnesota State Fire Marshal, and the community awaits answers. As Hermantown grieves, memories of Gayle Nelson and Joan Wisneski live on in the lives they touched and the friendships they built over decades. Their passing is a sobering reminder of life’s fragility—and the strength of a community that comes together in moments of unimaginable loss.
