Richard "Rick" Nelson

Richard Nelson passed away peacefully on February 22, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with dementia. He was 79 years old. A man of quiet strength and unwavering devotion, Richard leaves behind a legacy of love, humility, and service that will endure through the lives he touched.

Richard is survived by his beloved wife of 53 years, Joan Nelson, who remained his steadfast companion and caregiver throughout his illness. He is also survived by his two sons, Tim Nelson (age 50) and Chris Nelson (age 48), and five cherished grandchildren: Theo, Trevor, Jared, Kyley, and Ashly. He also loved his daughters-in-law greatly (Tenia and Lori). His family was his greatest joy, and they will forever remember his gentle spirit, patient heart, and the way his love was felt in every word and action.

Born on November 15, 1946, in Needles, California, Richard grew up along the Colorado River, with the Mojave Desert as his backdrop. He was the son of Betty and Milo Nelson. Raised in a home rich with faith and tradition, Richard carried those values throughout his life. He shared a close bond with his siblings—his older brother Robert and sisters Judy and Jane—and treasured his extended family, including many nieces and nephews. Though early educators mistakenly labeled him as delayed, Richard defied expectations with determination and brilliance. He graduated high school with honors, earned his undergraduate degree from USC, and went on to complete his Pharmacy degree at Arizona State University. His academic journey was complemented by his service in the United States Air Force, where he participated in ROTC and served honorably.

It was during his ROTC years that Richard met Joan, the love of his life. Joan often recalled knowing he was “the one” when, at dinner, he ordered not a beer but several glasses of milk—a simple gesture that spoke volumes about his character. They married on December 30, 1972, beginning a partnership marked by devotion and mutual respect.

Richard and Joan welcomed their sons, Tim (1975) and Chris (1978), and built a home filled with warmth and laughter. After leaving the Air Force, Richard began his long career as a pharmacist, ultimately serving at the VA Medical Center in Denver for over three decades. His keen intellect and love of language—particularly Latin—helped him excel in both pharmacy and computer programming during the early days of medical technology. He also enjoyed signing the Mass for the ASL community at Catholic parishes.

Outside of work, Richard found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He cultivated a backyard garden, teaching his sons the value of patience and care, and later replaced it with a basketball court to support their passions. He encouraged spirituality, humility, and service in his children, modeling these virtues daily. His quiet faith and gentle nature were constants in a world that often felt hurried.

In retirement, Richard and Joan enjoyed life together, moving between Colorado and Montana, always finding peace in each other’s company. When dementia began to take hold a decade ago, Joan never wavered in her care and devotion, supported by the family. Their love story remained a testament to commitment and grace.

Richard will be remembered for his kindness, his unwavering faith, and his deep devotion to family. His life was a tapestry of service, humility, and love—a legacy that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.