Richard Norman Nelson

Richard Norman Nelson Capt., USN, ret.

02 Nov 1940 – 29 Sep 2020

Captain Richard Norman Nelson, USN (Ret.) of Keller, TX, died on Sunday, September 27, 2020 at age 79. Rich was born in Chicago, IL, on November 2, 1940, to Hans Peter and Margaret Nelson. Rich was a Navy vet-eran, qualified in sub-marines, who served his country for 35 years, in both active and reserve duty. As an Engineering Duty Officer, he reported to the Navy's Division of Naval Reactors under Admiral H. G. Rickover. Military decorations include two Meritorious Service Medals, Navy & Marine Corps Commendation Med-al, and Recruiting Gold Wreath.

Rich attended Purdue University and received a bachelor's degree with Highest Distinction and a master's degree in Mechanical Engineering. He received his Juris Doctor degree from George Washington University. Formerly, Rich was corporate counsel for Elbit Systems of America: EFW, Inc. in Fort Worth, TX.

Rich was a Life Member of the Naval Reserve Association and Navy League, member of the Reserve Officer Association, American Society of Naval Engineers, Naval Institute, Naval Order, the American Bar Association, National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution, and, most proudly, the US Submarine Veterans (USSVI), Fort Worth and Dallas Bases.

Rich was a member of The American Legion Greater Fort Worth Post 516

Rich was a violinist with the Northeast Orchestra, including a time as concert master. He had a love of music and performed in many community, theatre, and church orchestras throughout his life.

Rich is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years and dance partner, Bonnie Nelson, daughter Kimberly Nelson of Centreville, VA, daughter and son-in-law Amy and Harold Mylius of Liberty Township, OH, grandchildren Austin Figueroa, Rebecca Figueroa, Elaine Mylius, Bennett Mylius, Bradley Mylius, as well as treasured brother, fishing and golf partner, Dr. Allan Nelson (Gayle) of Pentwater, MI.

Burial with full military honors will be held at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.

The Northeast Orchestra will perform a memorial con-cert on Friday, October 23, 2020 at 7:30 p.m. at Peace Lutheran Church, 941 W. Bedford-Euless Rd., Hurst, TX. All are invited to attend.

In memory of Rich, donations can be made to Northeast Orchestra, P.O. Box 821395, North Richland Hills, TX 76182-1395.