Cpl. Richard "Ricky" Nelson, 23, of Kenosha, passed away on Monday, April 14th, 2008, in Al Anbar, Iraq. Born on September 4, 1984, he was the son of Lennie and Susan (Mercier) Nelson. Ricky was a lifelong Kenosha resident and graduated from Christian Life High School in 2003. On April 21, 2007, he married Kristen Fedler in Winthrop Harbor, IL. Ricky was enlisted in the U.S. Marines Reserves Fox Company on June 13, 2003. He was currently employed with the Cornerstone Construction Company in Kenosha. Ricky was a member of the First Assembly of God and was an active leader of the Royal Rangers children's program at the church. He was an outdoorsman enjoying fishing, hunting, and camping. He was an avid Green Bay Packer fan but first and foremost was very family orientated. Survivors include his wife, Kristen of Kenosha; his parents, Lennie and Susan Nelson of Pleasant Prairie; five brothers and one sister, Scott (Anna Lisa) Nelson of Wheatland, WI, David (Rindy) Nelson of Bothel, WA, Todd (Marisela) Nelson of Shakopee, MN, Mark (Corey) Nelson of Milwaukee, WI, Katie (Alan) Anzalone of Racine, WI, and James (Yenni) Nelson of Kenosha; his maternal grandmother, Edith Mercier of Pleasant Prairie; 14 nieces and nephews; and several aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Leonard and Katherine Nelson, and his maternal grandfather, Vernon Mercier. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 23rd, at Proko Funeral Home from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. The funeral service will be held on Thursday at First Assembly of God at 11:00 a.m. with a visitation at First Assembly of God from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. Interment will be held at the Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery with full military honors immediately after the service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made out to the Cpl. Richard Nelson Scholarship Fund through Christian Life School.Proko Funeral Home & Crematory5111-60th StreetKenosha, WI 53144Phone: (262) 654-3533Visit Ricky's Online Memorial Book at:www.prokofuneralhome.com
Condolences
Penne (Nelson) Lendman
Kristen, Lennie & Sue and the rest of the Nelson Family:You will always be in my thoughts and prayers. As humans we hurt for our ourself as we lose a loved one, but being in a strong Christian family knowing he is with the Lord does give us some sort of peace. He was loved dearly and will always remain in our memory and in our hearts. With much love Aunt Penne,Sister Penne
David Goeldner
I was that which others did not want to be.I went where others feared to go, and what others failed to do.I ask nothing from those who gave nothing, and reluctantly accepted the thought of eternal loneliness... should I fail.I have seen the face of terror, felt the stinging cold of fear, and enjoyed the sweet taste of a moment's love.I have cried, pained and hoped...but most of all, I have lived times others will never know.At least I am able to say that I was proud of what I was... a Marine. Author unknownMy heart goes out to you for the loss of your son and I will celebrate his life. He will always hold a special place of honor in my heart and soul.And through your faith in God you will find peace.
Steve and Barbi Murphy
To Kristen, and Richard's Parents,Words could never express how broken hearted we are for your family. Our son Lance Corp. Kyle Murphy served in the same unit (H&S Truck PLT) with Richard in Iraq. We have been so heavy hearted since the news of his passing. As our son continues his work in Iraq, we just wanted to let you know... you are in our thoughts and prayers and we thank him for his service and ULTIMATE SACRIFICE to our freedoms and those of others. We honor him with our friends and church family and we will continue to lift you up and ask for the FATHERS comfort and healing to surround you at this time. In His love,Steve and Barbi Murphy (TEXAS)
Anna Brown
To: The Nelson Family, I am so deeply sorry for your loss. I have a brother in the Army. I believe with my whole heart that Cpl. Nelson was God's Warrior. He is a Hero and I will live with great respect for your family and Cpl. Nelson because he gave his life for me and my family's freedom. Thank you.You and your family are in my Prayers God Bless You, Anna Brown
Jeff
December 21, 2024
I did not personally know Ricky but heard stories from my wife Sharon. We talked about many things through our lives but her cousin Ricky's story sticks with me through life his picture hangs ob my hallway wall.... I man I never knew but through memories of my wife.... I know he was a dedicated patriot and a good man. So eone I never knew but wish I had met... I was at my wife's side at his funeral wondering how things would be if life was different. I only know of him Through stories of a ghost of a ghost. Thank you Ricky. For your sacrifice and your bravery. To my the love of my life...thank you firthe 25 years I was privileged to spend with you. I love you always and forever!!!
Aasim
April 14, 2021
"Never throughout history has a man who lived a life of ease left a name worth remembering."-Theodore Roosevelt
Miranda Jansen
June 14, 2008
Kristen, I never knew Rick. I knew your sister, Keri, in high school. I heard about his passing back in April, but never knew the connection until just this morning. I read the articles, & watched the videos, & my heart aches for you & the rest of your family.Rick died on my birthday. I know that doesn't mean anything, but I will think of him.Thank you Rick for your courage & your service.Always, Miranda
Patti (Piche) Irving and Family
April 27, 2008
Dear Susan,When I learned of Ricky's passing, I was overwhelmed with sadness over the loss of another soldier; then my Mom informed me that he was your son and my heart was so very heavy for you and your family. I cannot imagine losing your "child", but also the pride you must surely have in him. What a wonderful photo of him. We prayed for him at our church today and I will continue to keep all of you in my prayers.I don't know if you remember me, we went to school together as well as our Dad's were business buddies and friends. (Piche)With prayers and sincere condolences, Patti Irving
Kevin Simon
April 26, 2008
It was an honor to escort Cpl Nelson in his movements from Delaware to his final resting place. Being an escort is an honorary tradition in the Marine Corps and I am proud to carry it on. Best regards.Kevin SimonCpl USMCEscort of Cpl Nelson
Phyllis Spakowski
April 25, 2008
Kristen, Lennie, Susan and family,I am so sorry that Ricky is not here with you anymore, such a great loss. We know that he is happy, but I also know how sad and lonely it is for all of you. Please know that we are praying for you, that GOD be with you, that HE comfort you.
Laurie McKaig
April 25, 2008
I am sorry for your loss & you are in my prayers. My 23 year old son was in the 82nd Air Bourne Division & did 2 tours of Iraq. He is now back in WI & with the WI Army Reserves. He will return to Iraq in 01/09.Thank God for these brave souls who serve & protect our country. Laurie McKaigA Kenosha Mom
Jim & Joyce Young
April 24, 2008
To the Nelson Family,We are sorry for your loss. Joyce and I Pray God's Grace will sustain you at this time and the years ahead. Please know, we are praying for you,Jim & Joyce Young
Traci
April 24, 2008
To the Nelson Family,I am so sorry for your loss. Being from a family with 2 brothers who were in the Marines, I know how brave and proud they are to serve their country. I'm sure every Marine will be giving a "Hoo Rah" out in his honor.
Ron & Peggy Neau & Family
April 24, 2008
Dear Nelson Family,We are not able to be there to offer our condolences but we wanted you to know that you are in our thoughts & prayers. Ricky will always be remembered fondly for his passion for life. We pray for strength & comfort for your family in the coming days. God Bless You!
Kristine Thrailkill
April 24, 2008
Please know that you and your family, and Ricky's wife and her family are in our thoughts and prayers at this most difficult time. Ricky's ultimate sacrifice and your sacrifice help remind us that our precious freedom is not free, but the sacrifice is not in vain. God has a very special place in Heaven for His Marines, and they truly are the Best of the Best!May God hold you close and comfort you, and may His Peace surround you.Semper Fi Kristine Olsen Thrailkill and family LCDR/NC/USNR RET
Debbi Plaga
April 24, 2008
Dear Kristen, Susan, Lenny, and all of Ricky's siblings whose names I don't know, Words cannot express how my heart aches for you in your sorrow. I know that as true Believers, you know you will be with Ricky again but that doesn't remove the pain of the years you will have without him. Although I knew Ricky for such a short time, he left a very special spot in my heart. I will miss him and remember him always. Thank you Ricky for loving this country so much that you were willing to give your life so that we may enjoy the freedoms of this country. Thank you Lenny and Susan for raising such a sweet spirit, and thank you Kristen for loving Ricky so completely. I know Jesus is carrying you all through this time of deep sorrow because there is only one set of footprints in the sand.Tom and Debbi Plaga
Linda Rios
April 24, 2008
Dearest Nelson Family No words can describe the pain that you are all feeling during this heartfelt time. Ricky was a "very" happy go lucky kinda guy who loved his Lord and Savior. My daughter used to hang out with Ricky and lots of others that knew Ricky. She remembers him as "SOOO FUNNY" and the "life of the party" kinda guy... We want your family to know that the Lord has a plan for each of us, and the Lord says that we are ALL connected ....we are all sisters and brothers. We feel your pain as if he was one of ours. Our tears and heartfelt condolences are not enough, but Ricky gave his life for our FREEDOM!! May the Lord hold each and everyone of you NEAR AND DEAR during this terrible time. In memory of Ricky, thank YOU RICKY FOR SERVING OUR GLORIOUS COUNTRY..YOU ARE A TRUE HERO!!Holding you and your family close at heartand keeping your loved ones in our prayersMay God Bless each and everyone of you, and give you the strength to get through this together as a whole!Sincerely grateful to your son Ricky NelsonThe Rios Family
Jason and Nadine Myers
April 24, 2008
"Pay to all what is owed to them: ....respect to whom respect is owed, honor to whom honor is owed." Romans 13:7It is with gratitude in our hearts that we send our condolences. We are thankful for the service Cpl. Nelson provided for our country; and the sacrifice he made for our freedom. Respect and honor are due him. May the God of all comforts grant you much favor in this time.
Susan Hefner
April 23, 2008
Those who have given their lives for their country are never forgotten. They will live on forever in the hearts of all who cherish freedom. Our deepest sympathy.. Medical Assets of WI.
Marie Cooper
April 23, 2008
To Rick's Family,I know my name might not be familiar. But I was Rick's orientation leader when he first came to Parkside. I also was able to meet out with him and his friends on a social level as well. I live in Green Bay and just found out about this on the news. He was such a great person and wanted to let you know he affected many of us. I'm truly sorry for your loss and my prayers are with you as you go through this difficult time.Marie Cooper
Tom Schiera
April 23, 2008
To the Nelson family,I am very sorry for your loss. Your son, husband and brother was a very brave and honorable man and a fine Marine. I know the great pride you feel for Ricky, as well you should. Our nation is very grafeful for his service and sacrifices to our country. May God help to give you peace and comfort during this most difficult time. I know that it will bring you comfort in knowing that Ricky is now with God in Heaven and that he will now have everlasting peace and happiness with Him.Thank you Cpl. Nelson for defending our nation so courageously. You are a hero to all of us and we shall never forget you. May God Bless You and Keep You for all eternity. Rest in Peace, brave Marine.SEMPER FI.Tom Schiera, father ofLCpl. Andrew T. Schiera, USMC1st ANGLICO Company, Al-asad, Iraq
Kristen (Tjader) Hargett
April 23, 2008
Dear Kristen & Mr. & Mrs. Nelson and Family -You are in our thoughts and prayers as you mourn the loss of Ricky. May God continue to give you His strength and His peace during these difficult days. May the love of family and friends surround you during this difficult time.In His Love,Tom & Kristen Hargett & Family (Siloam Springs, Arkansas)
Kathy Oglesby
April 23, 2008
My deepest sympathy to Kristen Nelson and the parents of Richard Nelson. It is very difficult to express my appreciation for the service he provided to our country. He was a very fine young man and stood by his country, his family and his church. Thank you for providing us with a sense of security, friendship and love. May your memory live on in the hearts of all who grew to know and love you. Kathy Oglesby
Cheryl (Gilbert) Cunningham
April 23, 2008
I wish to express my deepest sympathy for the loss of you son, husband, brother. You should be so very proud of Ricky and what he stood for. I never meet Ricky, but I am so very proud of him, and of his accomplishments in his short life. I lost my nephew PFC Kyle Gilbert on August 6, 2003, in Baghdad Every day I thank God for putting Kyle in my life for the 20 years we had together. Your family is in my prayers, as are all of the brave service men and women. In Gods love, Cheryl Cunningham
Don and Kim George
April 23, 2008
Dear Nelson Family, Our hearts and prayers are with you during this time of sorrow in your life. Even though we haven't yet met, we are part of your family. We are a Christian family who attends your church at First Assembly of God and we are a military family as well. Our son PFC Eric George is currently serving in Iraq with a Specialized Search Dog Team. There are few that appreciate the service the soldiers provide and even fewer understand the commitment of the whole family. Our hearts are heavy that you have experienced this loss Don and Kim George
Sarah Harris (Neau) and Family
April 23, 2008
I wish I could be there with all of you in this difficult time. I can't imagine what you must be going through, but I offer my deepest prayers and condolences. May God hold each of you close in this challenging time and give you whatever comfort you need today and in days to come. Ricky was always a fun classmate and a good guy. I know he will always be remembered fondly.
Jennifer Bridges-McNeil
April 22, 2008
We are so very sorry for your loss and as a mother of a son who served with yours and who remains steadfast is their mission there I can only imagine the pain you are suffering. Please call on us, your Marine Corp family, for anything and at any time. My son's name is LCPL Justin Roberts and he is in the H&S Co. It would be our honor to help your family in any way possible. Our phone # is 254-897-2438/254-413-2627. Your son is a hero and his service to this country will never be forgotten. We reside in Texas or we would be there with you at this time. With love,respect,& admiration for your son and your family, The family of LCPL Roberts
Sue & Dan Whipple and family
April 22, 2008
We are so very,very sorry to hear of your loss....please know our thoughts and our prayers remain with you all now and in the long healing days to come.
Derek Goodwin
April 22, 2008
We pray that God will give you peace during your time of loss. We appreciate the sacrifice Richard made for our country and his service to young men. Derek GoodwinGeorgia RR Commander
Amy Hannaman
April 22, 2008
My thoughts and prayers go out to your entire family. Your son is a hero to me and my family. My husband is also in the service and is scheduled for deployment in January and I only hope that God will guide him just as he guided Ricky. I know that your loss is painful, but know that your son died doing what was in his heart. My husband tells me that only those who serve this country feel the calling and the "need" to go overseas and make our world a better place. Ricky felt that need and he knew what he had to do. He is an admirable, respectable young man and he deserves a hero's welcome to the gates of heaven. Chin up!
Sue Hooser
April 22, 2008
Dear Nelson Family,Thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of sadness. I thank God for Ricky and his service. I hope you can find comfort in your memories and knowing he is at peace in the Kingdom of Heaven and that you will see him again. Peace be with you,
Regina
April 22, 2008
I am so sorry for your loss. I am a friend of the Finks and wish to send you my prayers. I thank you and Ricky for the huge sacrifice you have endured. I thank Ricky for the freedom I have in this crazy world.Even though I never meet Ricky he will always be in my prayers. May God hold you dear.
Steve and Sandra Wickson
April 22, 2008
Our hearts and prayers are with you and your entire family. Our son, LCPL Dustin Goetz, is currently serving in Iraq in the same unit. Please know your son is, and will always be, a hero to us all and he will never be forgotten. We pray for you and your family to find strength in each other and in the Lord during this time of need. Yours through Christ,Steve and Sandra Wickson
Pat Zempel and Family
April 22, 2008
Lennie and Family, We are so sorry to hear of your great loss. The Lord promises to never leave us and we trust that you will claim His promise at this difficult time. We will continue to keep you and your family in our prayers as you deal with your grief. Pat Zempel Family1 Thes. 4:13
Grateful Americans in Beach Park
April 22, 2008
Dear Kristen - your husband is a hero, and I want to say thank you for sharing him so that I might continue to be free. I can't imagine the loss your heart feels, even knowing that he is at home with our Lord. Hold on to the love, and let God heal.
Bobbie Lou Bridges
April 22, 2008
Dear Nelson Family,My heart aches for all of you. Our grandson, LCPL Justin Roberts is in your son's Marine Unit, Iraq. Our prayers are with all your family at this time. May God, in time, heal your grief and pain.Our love and blessings,Bobbie Lou & Jack BridgesGlen Rose, Texas
Lisa Eichorst
April 21, 2008
Hi you don't know me, but I'm Gilbert and Sylvia Villalobos' niece. I just want to send my condolences to the family. My husband is currently serving in Kuwait, and I truly want you to know that your family will be in our prayers to help give you the strength to deal with this loss. I pray that God gives you the comforting that you need and know that he will always be there and that Ricky will always be with you too, God Bless You All, Sincerely Lisa Eichorst and Family
Jim, Vicki, and Jenna Depies
April 21, 2008
Words cannot begin to express our sincere sympathy in the loss of your husband, son, brother, uncle, and friend. We are so very deeply sorry and hope and pray you find comfort in your memories and knowing others care. He gave the ultimate sacrifice. Please remember he died a true hero. Our prayers are with all of you.Jim, Vicki, and Jenna DepiesParents and Sister of:Lance Corporal Jeremy J. DepiesGolf Company2/24 Batallion"Home of the Free because of the Brave"
Shelly Palmer
April 21, 2008
Dear Nelson Family-I'm still thinking and praying for all of you during this time. Ricky will be missed and always remembered as a true American hero. God Bless.
Donna Gesler
April 21, 2008
MY son is with Golf co. 2/24 marines also. I am so sorry to here of the loss of your son. Please know that I and many others are with your family, even though we don't know you personally, we know your pain and feel for you. With loving thoughts of your son and all the Marines in the unit. A Marine mom also. Donna Gesler( mother of Cpl. Randy Gordon)
Marsha Mattek
April 21, 2008
To The Family of Cpl.Richard (Ricky) Nelson, there are no word's to express to you how very sorry my family and I are for your loss. You are very much in our heart's and our thought's and our prayer's are and will continue to be with you. so, there are no word's i can give you at this time or any, but know my feeling's come from my heart, and I truly understand. We lost our son, he was a Marine born on sept. 12, 1980, he died from injuries recieved in al anbar province, so know we understand and hurt so very much for all of you.You will be in our prayer's and I will pray for you to have strenght as you start this different path of life.May God Bless You All. In Respect and Honor of your Son and Husband we pray for you. John and Marsha Mattek Very Proud Family of LcPl John Mattek Jr. 9-12-80 6-13-05 USMC
Jeani Schmidt
April 21, 2008
My deepest sympathies to your family. Kilea and Tyler remember playing on the trampoline with Ricky and how he played hide and seek with Tyler any time he was asked. Tyler really looked up to him. Ricky touched many people and we will always remember his fun, caring, kind nature. My heart goes out to all of you.
Jill Unrein
April 21, 2008
To just imagine how right now, Ricky is walking the streets of 'GOLD' with Jesus. He has met all the men and women he learned about in Bible quiz. The perfect world he has entered into. Although its sad for us because we cannot see him until we enter Heaven. One thing I'm sure Ricky would say to all of us right now if he could. WOW....you guys must except Jesus, Heaven is beyond all that I imagined. Nelson, you raised a fine christian man. I will be praying for all of you.
Joe and Carole Birong
April 21, 2008
Dear Lennie, Susan, Kristen and Family's,We are so very sorry to hear of your great loss. We are so grateful for the tremendous love the Father, our Precious Lord and Savior, and the Comforter has for His Precious Children, and the love Ricky had for Him, each of you, and his fellow man kind.We have been praying, and will continue to pray, that His great Peace and Comfort would rule and reign in each of your hearts. May He strengthen you; give you courage, comfort, and hope for today and the days to come.We would also like to thank the Nelson family for the many great memories we have of times we worked together with many of you. You have blessed our lives and the lives of our loved ones in many ways. Sbah-see-bah...Thank you With much love, Joe and Carole Birong
LINDA POCKLINGTON BOYER
April 21, 2008
My heart goes out to the whole family! I WAS FROM WINTHROP HARBOR BUT NOW LIVE IN WESTERN PA. BUT WAS LOOKING AT A CLASSMATE'S INFORMATION AND SEEN RICHARD'S DEATH IN IARQ. SO YOUNG SO SAD BUT BE PROUD HE WAS SO SPECIAL AND MORE MAN THEN MANY! I SALUTE HIS BRAVERY!
Gary & Becky Fish
April 21, 2008
Sue & Lennie & family,You have all been in our hearts and prayers since we heard of Ricky's homegoing. We have no words to express how sorry we are for your loss. Ricky grew into such a fine young man. One who loved his God, his family, and his country all the days of his life. That's the wonderful legacy he leaves behind. Our lives should not be judged by the number of days that we live, but rather by how we live those days. And Ricky lived them well. We ask our Lord to bring you peace and comfort as only He can. May you find hope in knowing that there's a time and a place coming where there will be no more sad 'good-byes' only joyful 'hellos'.We wish we didn't live so far away and could be there with you. Since that's not possible, please know that we will be there in the Spirit. Through all of this, may the Lord hold you close to His heart as we do.With love in Him,Gary & Becky Fish
Tom, Karyn, Luke & LT. Abraham Rush
April 21, 2008
Kristen, Susan, Lennie and family, Our prayers are with you in this time of deepest sadness. We recognize Ricky as a hero and will honor and remember him as a hero. Abraham sends his condolences from Afghanistan and says, "We will see Ricky again." God bless you and our prayers are with you.
Betty Smith
April 20, 2008
Dear Nelson Family,I am so sorry to read of the loss of your wonderful son. I don't know you but our family suffered a similar loss during the Korean conflict when my uncle Sgt Robert E.Edwards was killed at age 18.I was fourteen at the time and still remember the sadness mixed with the extreme pride in Bob's sacrifice.They are true hero's and so deserve our respect-then,now and forever! Thank you Ricky Nelson for keeping the United States Of America safe. God Bless you and your family for your bravery! Betty SMith
Bill & Gay Birkholz
April 18, 2008
Our sincere and heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Cpl Nelson.
Linnea Gudmundson-Adams
April 16, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of you. Kristen, we love you and are praying for you. Ricky was such a special part of our lives and we were blessed to have been able to share so many precious moments with him. May God bring you a sense of comfort in knowing that he is at home with our Savior. He is truly going to be missed. Linnea, Justin and Makayla