Richard "Dick" Nelson

Richard "Dick" Nelson

Cedar Rapids

Richard "Dick" Nelson left this earthly plane after 86 years to join his wife in Heaven on the 8th of April, 2025.

Dick is survived by his siblings, Diane Nelson, Jerry Nelson, and Bob (Nancy) Nelson; his children, Pamela Nelson (Mark), Rick Nelson (Lina), Roger Nelson (Peggy), Bill Crouch, Becky Bond (Jeff), Bonny Steele (Todd), and Angie Birchler (Dan); fifteen grandchildren; fifteen great-grandchildren; along with a handful of cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Edna and Cliff Nelson, his beautiful wife Glenda, his beagle boys Bentley & Oliver, and one dirty old mutt named Bubba.

Despite the fact he lived in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, for the past 42 years, Dick let everyone who crossed his path know about his Minnesota roots and Norwegian heritage. His charming personality and irresistible smile made it easy for him to befriend people in all walks of life. Dick always tried to find a connection with people, and to school them on the difference between hot dish and casserole.

Dick served in the United States Navy, then went on to work as a salesman, a hotel manager, and an insurance agent. His greatest role came in 1984 when he became a grandpa. Dick was eventually blessed with 15 grandkids and 15 great-grandkids; they were one of the greatest joys of his life. He enjoyed spending time fishing, golfing, watching sports, and just spending time talking with his grandchildren and doting on the great-grandkids.

Dick lived with serious health issues for decades, from heart disease to COPD to cancer. He was brave in the face of uncertainty, and he battled. He did not let his health stop him from living his life. Dick spent his retirement keeping Glenda on her toes, going to bingo with friends, playing cards at the senior center, and keeping up with all the family's shenanigans. Dick was blessed with so many doctors, nurses, technicians, not to mention the most amazing family and friends who supported him throughout the years. He was a force like no other and will live on in our hearts for eternity.

A celebration of life will be held Sunday, August 31st, 2025. Please join us between 1 PM until 4 PM to honor Dick at the Steele County Historical Society, located at 1700 Austin Road, Owatonna, MN 55060.