Richard Nelson, 81, Albert Lea

Richard “Penny” D. Nelson, 81, died Sept. 21, 2016, at St John’s Lutheran Retirement Community. 
Richard Nelson was born Jan. 11, 1935, in Albert Lea to Thursten “Turk” and Jeanette (Ness) Nelson. He was a graduate of Albert Lea High School, and as a young man he worked for his father at the Conoco Filling Station on East Main Street. In June of 1957, Nelson married his lifelong love, Shirley Schultz, and they had four children. He spent his life in the Albert Lea and Rochester areas.
Nelson belonged to and retired from the National Guard of Minnesota. He also worked as a civilian for the Guard. After his retirement he and Shirley were privileged to do some traveling. He enjoyed old cars, guns, hunting and woodworking.
He is survived by his wife Shirley of Albert Lea, children; Marjean (Chuck) Legler of Luck, Wis.; Kristine Gil of Mazatlán, Mexico; Dean (Cindy) Nelson of Mantorville and Jeanie (Dan) Unger of Dodge Center. There are nine grandchildren, five great grandchildren, one sister; Mary Ellen Evans of Albert Lea and nieces and nephews.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents.
Funeral services for Richard Nelson of were held at the Bridge Community Baptist Church South on Sept. 25. Pastor Mark Miller officiated the service. Interment was in Hillcrest Cemetery, Albert Lea. Military honors were accorded by the Albert Lea Area Veterans Groups.
Memorials preferred in lieu of flowers.