Richard Nelson

Nelson, Richard C.
Richard C. (Dick) Nelson died peacefully at home. Dick was a lifelong resident of the South Minneapolis area. His parents, Walter and Frances, who had a vibrant, loving family life on Minnehaha Pkwy, preceded him in death.
Dick was exceedingly smart in Catholic grade schools. Later at De La Salle High School he was in the National Honor Society. After only one year in college, he felt a call to service to his country. He joined the Marines at the height of the Vietnam War. He served with great distinction in perilous combat under arduous jungle conditions. He was known for a great devotion to his fellow Marines. Dick used his great intellect to rapidly learn the Vietnamese language. He was an exceedingly capable and well-loved member of his infantry company.
After his service tour he completed his degree in Social Work at the University of Minnesota. He helped many people during a productive career for the State of Minnesota first as a parole officer and later in Human Resources. Over the years he was challenged and suffered greatly with physical and mental issues stemming from his service in Vietnam. He carried the burden of pain with great dignity.
Dick loved the outdoors especially hiking and fishing. He was a faithful sports fan to all Minnesota teams. He enjoyed reading especially biography and history. He took great joy in participating in family life and was very proud of the accomplishments of younger members. He will be greatly missed.
Dick was devoted to his cats, Molly and Thomasina who were his faithful companions. He is survived by his brother, William (Diane) of Hampton MN, James (Nenita) of Minneapolis and Jeanne (Bill) of El Cerrito CA and three wonderful nieces, Cynthia, Sara and Kristin.
A Prayer Service will be held at 11 AM Saturday, September 27 at BRADSHAW, 3131 Minnehaha Ave. S., with a visitation 1 hour prior to the service.
After the prayer service at Bradshaw, he will be buried next to his parents in Resurrection Cemetery in Mendota Heights. May he rest in peace!

Bradshaw
3131 Minnehaha Avenue South
612-724-3621