Richard "Dick" Nielsen

Richard "Dick" Nielsen Saginaw, Michigan
Devoted and beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather, Richard "Dick" Littrup Nielsen passed away surrounded by family on Sunday, November 24, 2024, at Traditions of Saginaw. The son of the late Johannes Littrup and Gerda Elisabeth Nielsen, Dick was born on April 8, 1938, in Flint, Michigan. He was a first generation American and very proud of his Danish heritage. Following his graduation from high school in 1956, he worked for Michigan Bell. He then went on to attend Michigan State University where he received his Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering. In 1963, Dick began his professional career at Saginaw Steering Gear, where he worked as an engineer until his retirement in 1998.
Dick married the love of his life, Judith Ann Rumbold, on September 1, 1962, in St. Michael Catholic Church in Flint, Michigan. They enjoyed married life together for 62 wonderful years. He loved holidays, family camping, fishing trips with family and friends, and traveling with Judy, especially to American historical sites. The greatest joy of his life was spending time with his family. A devoted Catholic, Dick was a member of St. Dominic Catholic Church. He was active in his faith, serving as a lector and Eucharistic Minister for many years. Together, Dick and Judy also participated in the Christian Family Movement. He was a member of the Industrial Executive Club and served on the board of Junior Achievement. In his free time, Dick enjoyed softball and played until he was 75 years old. He was also an avid reader who was always ready for a cup of coffee and a game of Euchre or Cribbage. He had a quick wit and a robust sense of humor. Dick proudly held the titles of "Family Grill Master" and "Chief Popcorn Chef." Extremely handy with tools, he was a master at home repair. His family will dearly miss his humor, warmth, love, and famous bear hugs.
Dick is survived by his wife, Judy, their five children: John (Julie) Nielsen, Grand Blanc, Michigan; Marianne (Jim) Miller, Saginaw Township, Michigan; Paul (Susie) Nielsen, Saginaw Township, Michigan; Brigadier General (Ret.) Suzanne Nielsen, West Point, New York; and Christine (Andy) Woodrich, Northville, Michigan; ten grandchildren: Cathleen Nielsen, Eric (Alex) Nielsen, Michael Miller, Annie Nielsen (fiancé Eli Seitz), Lauren Nielsen, Jenny Nielsen, Ryan Miller (fiancée Morgan Lynch), Carrie Nielsen, Emma Woodrich, and Sophie Woodrich; one great-grandson, Karter Nielsen; sisters-in-law, Jackie Nielsen and Marilyn Marsh; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is lovingly reunited with his parents and his brother, Henry Littrup Nielsen; brothers-in-law, David Marsh and Gerald Rumbold; and sister-in-law, Carolyn Rumbold.
The family would like to thank the caring and compassionate staff of Traditions Memory Care who showed Dick so much loving attention. They would also like to extend a special thank you to Americans Home Health & Hospice Care, especially his nurse Rachel, and his visiting nurse, Nancy, who were so generous with the time and attention they gave to Dick and his family. In addition, they would like to thank Evie, who lovingly helped with Dick's care.
Dick has been cremated in accordance with his and his family's wishes. A private Memorial Mass will take place at a later date. For those wishing to express their sympathy, the family welcomes charitable contributions to Doctors Without Borders in lieu of flowers.