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Richard Nelson Obituary
Richard J. (Dick) Nelson passed away January 1, 2013, in Rancho Mirage, Calif.
Dick was born in Burley, Idaho, May 8, 1924, and moved with seven of his siblings to Los Angeles, Calif., in 1933. He attended school in Los Angeles and graduated from Fremont High School in 1942. Dick worked for a short time after high school as a personnel clerk before entering the Army in 1943. He served until 1946, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant.
After his discharge from the service, he began work at the California State Department of Employment as an interviewer. It was while working there, that he met the love of his life, Colleen Butler Smith, who was to become his wife of 53 years.
During his 38 years working for the State, Dick was promoted to Supervisor and Office Manager in Indio and San Bernardino. The last 10 years he was District Administrator, overseeing operations in groups of offices in several districts in Southern California.
After retirement, Dick and Colleen moved to Glen Eden Beach on the Oregon coast.
Colleen preceded Dick in death on February 14, 2002. Survivors include: sister, Lois Little of Downey, Calif.; sons, James Smith of Indian Wells, Calif., and Randy Nelson of Aloha, Ore.; daughters, Lee Hernandez of Flower Mound, Texas, Sue Ruhl of Walkersville, Md., and Sandi Christensen of Boulder City, Nev.; fifteen grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren.
He was a devoted husband and father, and a good friend.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Nelson
3 Entries
Carol Sue Ruhl
March 4, 2013
You and Mother will always remain in my heart! May peace be with you.
Mary Hernandez
January 20, 2013
My father is now with his beloved wife and the love of his life, Colleen. Rest in Pease Dad and Mom.
My father is now with his beloved wife Colleen. Rest in Peace Dad and Mom
Lee Nelson Hernandez
January 20, 2013
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