Richard Carl Nelson

Richard “Rick” Carl Nelson, 85, left this world peacefully on Saturday, September 9, 2023. Rick was a skilled carpenter and a member of local #108 Carpenters’ Union.  He worked for Daniel O’Connell and Sons all his working years and helped build most of the modern buildings in downtown Springfield, Mercy Hospital and UMass.  He was a friend of Bill W. for 39 years, enjoyed playing pitch at various senior centers in the area and loved fishing in the ocean and the Connecticut River.  Many would wave to him as he sped down the river in his gold Crestliner, “Six Pack” with his beloved retriever, GrrLee on the bow as he headed to his favorite fishing spot. In the colder months, he would be seen frequenting the local hockey rinks with his son, Mark and his pride and joy, grandson Christopher. He leaves his wife, Marilyn Ann Nelson of Springfield; eight children, Richard C. Nelson, Jr. and his wife Michelle of Ocala, FL, Eric D. Nelson and his wife Melonie of Oneonta, NY, Teri Lee of Chicopee, Stacy Ann Nelson and her companion Michael Feliciano, Jason S. Nelson and Derek Nelson all of Chicopee, Kristin Nelson and her companion Pete Cordova of Springfield, and Kara Nelson and her companion Robert Cain of Sturbridge; his sister, Marlene Nelson Danio of Longwood, FL; as well as many grandchildren and great grandchildren. He also leaves his life partner, Debbe Manfredi of Springfield; and his constant companion, Buddy Boy, his cat. Rick was predeceased by his parents, Yvonne (Goodrow) Nelson and Ralph Nelson of Springfield; his former wife Jeannette Calabrese Nelson of Springfield; and his sons, Karl V. Nelson of Florida and Mark C. Nelson of Springfield. A special thank you to Compassus Hospice Services and CareTenders Visiting Nurses for their loving care of Rick these past few weeks. If possible, please consider rescuing a cat or dog from a local shelter in memory of Rick. Services will be all private.  Keep “tight lines”. Arrangements are by the Byron Keenan Funeral Home & Cremation Tribute Center, 1858 Allen Street, Springfield.