Randall Eugene Nelson

Randall "Papa" Eugene Nelson was born on January 11, 1951, to George and Dovie Nelson in Luling, Texas. He was the eldest of his siblings, Sue and Mike, and graduated from Luling High School in 1969. Choosing hard work over college, Randy went straight into the oil field - a career that spanned more than five decades. For much of that time, he worked on offshore rigs, before returning to land operations in 2010 when the Texas oil boom called him home. He continued in the industry until 2023, earning the friendship of countless colleagues along the way.

Outside of work, Randy found joy in life's simple pleasures. He loved a good glass of Jack Daniels and Diet Coke, especially when shared over conversation on his beloved patio. Music in every form - from the twang of country to the elegance of classical - was a constant source of happiness for him, as were audiobooks. He was most notorious for "Papa's ribs" which he meticulously smoked for many hours and his grandchildren always looked forward to. He also spent many trail rides over the years driving his wagon pulled by his beloved Percheron, TB.

Randy had a well-known fascination with technology and gadgets - a passion that often brought a smile to his family. He always had the best computer, monitor, headphones, and speakers, and his front porch was frequently lined with packages from Apple and Amazon. Setting out for even the shortest drive required a ritual of fine-tuning every piece of technology in his truck, much to the amusement of those waiting on him.

Above all, Randy's greatest love was his family. Though he had no biological children, he wholeheartedly embraced his role as father and grandfather, offering unwavering support, generosity, and love. Christmases were made brighter by his giving spirit, and summers were filled with laughter as he kept a watchful eye over the grandkids in his pool. Among those closest to him was his son-in-law, Ryan, with whom he shared not only family ties but also deep friendship, common interests, and years of working side by side. Through his illness, Ryan's visits and FaceTimes never failed to lift Randy's spirits.

No one, however, was more devoted than his wife, Lori. They had many great times over their 23-year relationship. She stood faithfully by his side throughout his illness, spending nights in hospital rooms, caring for his every need, and ensuring that humor and love remained central even in the hardest moments. Thanks to her steadfast devotion, Randy spent his final weeks at home - resting in his own room, sitting out on the patio he loved, and surrounded by the comfort of family.

Randy is survived by his loving wife, Lori; his daughter, De Ann Atkinson (Ryan); his sons, Lance Tatsch (Natalie) and Chris Tatsch (Kristin); grandchildren Derrick Davis, Jaydin Benes (Devin), Liam Tatsch, Skylea Tatsch (Mike), Ashlynn Tatsch (Briar), Ainsley Riojas, Maggie Tatsch, Blakely Riojas (Blaine), Shylee Atkinson, Graylee Atkinson, and Rosie Atkinson; three great-grandchildren; and his loving mother-in-law, Ann Laster. He is also survived by his sister, Sue Nelson (John), niece Tracey, and nephew Chris.

Special friends who held an important place in Randy's life include Collins DeVilbiss, Mike Hamm, and Zach Kotzebue. Honorary pallbearers are Kelli Urrutia, Jeff Dolezal, and Chris Williamson, his wonderful neighbors from the 1500 block of St. Vincent, along with his dedicated caregivers from the Neuro ICU at Dell Seton, PAM in Luling, The Heights in Gonzales, and his cherished hospice nurses, Jody and Laura.

A memorial service will be held at Seydler Hill Funeral Home in Gonzales, TX on August 30, 2025 at 3pm. There will be a celebration immediately following at 1515 St. Vincent, Gonzales, TX. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to Hospice of South Texas.