Richard Leo Nelson

Richard Leo Nelson (1925–2025)

Richard Leo Nelson, 100, passed away on February 11, 2025. Born on New Year’s Day in 1925 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, he lived a life rich with adventure, hard work, and cherished relationships.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Marie (Charvat) and Nels F. Nelson; his beloved wife, Merlyn (Hetrick) Nelson; and his sisters, Betty (Robert) Anderson and Dorothy (Gary) Jenkins. He is survived by his sister, Karin Olson of Beaverton, OR; his children, Ann (Doug) Derr of New Hope, MN, Rick Nelson of Boulder, CO, and Liz (Bob) Reusch of Ottawa, KS; as well as four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, all of whom made him immensely proud.

Richard’s life was one of curiosity and determination. He earned a B.S. from the University of Minnesota while simultaneously receiving his naval commission. Serving as a gunnery officer in World War II and the Korean War, he embodied resilience and dedication. His athleticism shone during his undefeated 1944–45 wrestling season at the University of Minnesota, culminating in a Big Ten championship.

With Merlyn, he built a life in the Twin Cities and Zimmerman, MN, raising their family and also traveling the world. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to build houses in Minneapolis in the 1950s, establish Nelson Trees and Nursery in the 1960s, and later explore oil drilling in Kansas and real estate development.

A gifted storyteller, Richard preserved his extraordinary experiences in two books of memoirs, reflecting on his deep bond with his father, Nels, who was his greatest friend and mentor. He found joy in horseback riding, hunting and fishing trips with loved ones, and creative pursuits like painting and woodcarving.

Memorial Service will be at 11:00 AM on Saturday, May 31, 2025 at St. John Lutheran Church,13045 Fremont Ave, Zimmerman, MN, with visitation starting at 10:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Saint John Lutheran Church in Zimmerman, MN.

Richard generously donated his body to the University of MN Anatomy Bequest Program.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Richard Leo Nelson, please visit our floral store.