Richard Lee Nelson's Obituary
Richard Lee Nelson, known as Dick to his family and friends, died on December 1, 2024, at the
age of 94. He was born on January 9, 1930, to Gilbert and Myrtle Nelson in Galesburg, IL.
Dick spent his early years in Galesburg, IL. Even as a young man, he was hardworking. He
worked on the railroad, worked in a grocery store, had a paper route, husked corn, and was also
a lifeguard.
Dick attended Western Illinois State College in Macomb, IL. where he studied chemistry.
He married his high school sweetheart, Joan Stoltie, on July 12, 1953. Together they had 3
children.
Dick worked as a chemist for Pittsburg Paint in St. Louis, MO. He then moved his family to
Texas where he worked for Glidden Paint Company for more than 30 years until he retired.
He was best known for his generosity. Dick would give the shirt off his back for someone in
need. Many times, he would be in the front yard changing someone’s tires or helping jump them
battery.
Dick was a deacon at his church and was always ready to serve in any capacity.
Dick had an incredible love for his family. He was a “great great” grandpa, and nothing could
make him smile more than being in the presence of his grandchildren and great grandchildren.
He had a twinkle in his eye and his face would light up when he saw them. He was the chief
mischief maker!
Dick’s sense of humor always brought joy and laughter to those around him.
He tried many different crafts throughout his life such as weaving and leather tooling, but his
longest craft was that of woodcarving. He began to specialize in carving old fashioned Santas
which he sold at woodcarving shows and in some artisan craft stores. One of his grandchildren
thought his Santas were world famous. These are treasured by his family.
Dick loved the outdoors. Family vacations were always spent camping and hiking. In the heat
or the cold, he was often found sitting out on the driveway and woodcarving (his neighbors
calling him the neighborhood security guard) and talking to whoever went up and down the
street.
He was always busy. He would help around the house. He recently bought himself a new lawn
mower so he could mow the lawn! Climbing on a ladder that he shouldn’t to fix something was
another of his superpowers.
Dick is survived by his spouse of 71 years, Joan, his children, Lori Kader (Neal) , Steve Nelson
(Teresa), and Julie Stanley (Tim), 8 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, and 3 great great
grandchildren, as well as his sister, Carol Nelson (Ken).
To my dearest companion, the best father, the greatest grandpa, great grandpa, and great great
grandpa, the funniest ever, world famous woodcarver, champion of champions, and servant to
God- We will always love you.
A family graveside service will be held on December 9, 2024
What’s your fondest memory of Richard?
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Share a story where Richard's kindness touched your heart.
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