Dick "Richard" Nelson was born in Sidney, Nebraska January 1, 1936.  He was young when his family moved to Lakewood and eventually homesteading in Arvada.  Dick attended Arvada High School where he found his two love interests; Velma whom he married after his graduation in 1954 and wrestling. 

Dick was one of the great wrestlers in the early 1950's taking the state title in 1953 and 1954.  His coach inspired his greatness in life, as did Velma. Dick could have continued on to college with any of several full ride scholarships that were offfered, however he chose to marry his high school sweetheart and start a family. 

Dick had a daughter Kari  in 1960 and a son Gary soon followed in 1964.  He did whatever he could to support his family working as a traveling salesman and ultimately began a very successful construction business with Velma.  They spent several years living in beautiful Chaffee County where he "sort of retired".  His love of resoring antiques occupied many of his hours of his day along with hunting and fishing.  Even in hunting and fishing his benevolence never wavered as he always sought a cow license to care for his family. 

Dick spent many years as a Master Mason and mentored many young men through the lines of Masonry. 

They returned to their beloved Arvada in 2010 and Dick continued restoring furniture for Velma to sell at her antique booth, something they loved. 

When Velma's health began to deteriorate Dick devoted 100% of his time to taking care of his bride.  After Velma passed, Dick took care of his beloved roses and prepared for his reunion with Velma.

Dick is survived by his daughter Kari  and her husband Lee who he unconditionally loved as his second son, and Gary.  Dick also leaves four grandchildren  Andrew, Shandra, Dustin and Josh and seven great grandchildren. 

Memorial Service will be held at Aspen Mortuaries 6370 Union St, Arvada, Colorado 80004 on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at 11:00 am