Richard Henry `Rick` Nelson
Richard Henry `Rick` Nelson , Age 65
Richard Henry Nelson, or to his most cherished people, "Grandpa" passed away at his home Saturday, November 7, 2020. Rick was born on January 7, 1955 in Charleston, SC to William and Mary (Farrell) Nelson. As a child, he was fortunate to be raised in an Air Force family and got to travel much of the world. They brought their roots back to Baraboo where Rick had his first job as a paperboy. He loved sharing stories about his paper routes and the nice people he met along the way. He graduated from the Baraboo High School and went on to marry Susan (Horenberger) Nelson. They bought a farm and made his dream of being a farmer, a reality. He loved his farm and farming, but soon found his love for his family was even greater. He was blessed with three daughters, Erica, Becky and Jenny whom he loved dearly. You would find him at any sporting events they were playing in, as either their coach or cheering them on from the sidelines. Rick was blessed with three son-in-laws and seven grandchildren. He was the most amazing and dedicated grandfather. He never missed a birth, birthday, Wednesday morning school mass where he got to sit alongside his grandkids, or sporting event. You would find him at any school program, football, volleyball, basketball, baseball game, horse show or dance recital always with a big smile cheering them on. Also, he also enjoyed boating, water skiing and fishing in the summer and hockey games on the pond in the winter. He was the most dedicated father, uncle, and grandfather. He could brighten up any room he walked into with his smile and his laughter. He lent a helping hand anytime he was asked.
Rick is survived by his parents William and Mary Nelson, brothers; Patrick (Pam) Nelson, Alfred (Susan) Nelson, Ken (Nancy) Nelson, Dave (Jennifer) Nelson, Sister Sue (Brad) Stoddard, Daughters; Erica (Ben) Sellers, Becky (Brent) Brown, Jenny (Jason) Puttkamer, grandchildren; Abby and Maddy Sellers, Bianca and Bella Brown, Jackson, Layla and Jake Puttkamer, and his godchildren Scott Nelson, Ben Nelson, Max Nelson, Jackie Litscher, Jenna Litscher, and Adam Nelson and many other nieces and nephews, family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his brothers Henry Nelson and Charlie Nelson.
A memorial mass will be held on Saturday, November 14, 2020 at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Father Jay Poster officiating with a luncheon to follow at the family farm. Visitation will be held at church from 10 a.m. until the time of mass. Face masks at church will be required. The Redlin Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Condolences
Janet Ramsey November 09, 2020
Cousin Prairie Du Sac , Wisconsin
I'm so sorry to hear Rick passed away. His infectious laugh and big smile will be remembered forever.
Clara perry November 09, 2020
Aunt Oshkosh , Wisconsin
Both Chuck and I are so sorry no one can take his place such awful times I hope we can come in spite of covid but we have to be careful
Jackie and George McKeegan November 09, 2020
Aunt and Uncle North Freedom , Wisconsin
So sorry to hear of the passing of Rick Nelson. He was a wonderful person always kind to everyone he met. Always had that terrific smile whenever we got together. To his family, children, grandchildren, and all who knew him you have my sympathy. May he rest in piece.
Anne Burgess November 09, 2020
Friend BARABOO , Wisconsin
I'm so sorry to hear of Rick's passing. Such a wonderful man. He made my heart warm watching him hang with his buddy, Jake, at all of Jackson's basketball & baseball games. His laugh was infectious & his smile would light up a room. Jenny, Jason, Layla, Jackson & Jake - and all the other family members - you are all in my thoughts & prayers. May your wonderful memories give you comfort through this time. God bless you all.
Lori McKeegan-Sutherland November 10, 2020
Cousin Brodhead , Wisconsin
So sad to hear Rick had passed on. I always enjoyed seeing him at family reunions as we grew up. Such a positive, friendly guy and I loved his flannel shirts. You only had to hear that laugh to know Rick was there.. .it made everyone smile. Sending prayers of comfort for the family.
Elmer McKeegan November 10, 2020
Cousin FLOWER MOUND , Texas
Rick was one of those whom you always remember. I remember our times together in High School and the special ride he provided for Jennifer and me on our wedding day. I am saddened that he passed away. May family and friends be blessed with happy memories with Rick.
Monica Littlegeorge November 10, 2020
Old friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
So sorry for you loss. Rick definitely had a smile that would have you smiling too. Lots of memories!
Christine Brush November 11, 2020
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
My condolences to the family. Never saw him without a smile on his face.
JAMES AND RITA ZIMMERMAN November 11, 2020
FRIENDS BARABOO , Wisconsin
So sorry for your loss. We have known Rick for years. A great guy. Always a smile on his face. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Prayers coming your way.
Kathryn Tyson November 13, 2020
Cousin Middleton , Wisconsin
It is so hard to say goodbye to someone who has been such an essential part of our lives. Rick was very kind and giving to our family. Our hearts go out to Rick’s family.
Joseph Klemm November 14, 2020
Cousin Santa Rosa , California
Because he lived with us while growing up, I feel like I've lost a brother. Rest in peace Rick.
Tim Ringhand November 14, 2020
Friend of Henry and Rick Onalaska , Wisconsin
Such a generous, fun-loving, family loving soul. He will be missed by so many.
Jesse Faulkner November 14, 2020
Cousin Milwaukee , Wisconsin
I'm very sorry to hear of Rick's passing. He always had a big smile, especially while telling one of his great stories.
Steve & Sandy Jopp November 15, 2020
Friend of Jerry Waddell Baraboo , Wisconsin
So sorry to hear that Rick passed away. You are in our thought and prayers.
Jeanie Madalon November 20, 2020
Former neighbor Baraboo , Wisconsin
I'm so sorry to hear about Rick's passing. My deepest condolences to the entire Nelson family.