Richard Gustave "Rick" Nelson

January 25, 1954 - September 15, 2011

Richard "Rick" Nelson, age 57, of Buckhorn Drive, Richland Center, WI (formally of Schaumberg, IL) died peacefully in his home on Thursday, September 15, 2011 after a long and courageous battle with bone marrow cancer. Rick was born in Elgin, IL on January 25, 1954 to Richard E. and Faye (Deeke) Nelson. Rick graduated in 1972 from Conant High School in Schaumberg, IL. After graduating from high school he moved to Denver, CO and attended The Denver Automotive & Diesel College. After leaving Colorado he returned to the Chicago area and attended Greer Technical School of Diesel. Rick was then employed by Metco of Chicago where he worked on heavy Terex and Caterpillar equipment. In 1980 he moved to Richland Center and built his own home. Rick spent many years working as a diesel mechanic, heavy equipment operator and semi-truck driver. For many years he was employed by the Richland Center Bus Service as the shop manager. Rick was a jack of all trades and was able to build and fix just about anything. He was always willing to help out anyone who stopped by for a visit and a friendly conversation. Rick with his life partner of 22 years Cheryl Jean "Cherie" Frye loved their home on Buckhorn Drive enjoying Cherie's two sons Kenneth Frye (wife Angela), Seth Frye (friend Renee) and two grandsons, Joshua and Myles Frye. One of Rick's greatest loves was riding his Harley-Davidson with Cherie by his side. Rick and Cherie put on thousands of miles across the country and along the many beautiful roads of Wisconsin with his family & friends. There will be a Celebration of Life on Saturday, September 24, 2011 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the American Legion Post 13, Hwy 14 West, Richland Center. Rick asked that family and friends join together to celebrate and remember him. The family has asked that memorials be made to GRACE of Richland Center. The CLARY MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME is assisting the family with arrangements. On line condolences, pictures and life stories can be made at www.clarymemorialfuneralhome.com