Richard Carl Nelson

Richard Carl Nelson (85) of Hastings, MI entered the gates of Heaven on August 13, 2023, surrounded by his family.

Spending time with his family was one of his greatest joys, which included regular visits with his brother.  His lifetime hobbies included hunting, golfing, gardening, watching/feeding the birds and he was an avid Detroit Tigers fan.

Richard was born to Lial and Isabel Nelson on July 15th, 1938, in Lowell, MI.  Richard married his wife Darlene on April 30, 1965.  Richard is survived by his wife of 58 years, Darlene; his children Khris Kenyon, Dale (Ruby) Kenyon, Patricia (Wade) Dakin, Pamela Nelson and Paige (Scott) Herrington.  He is also survived by his grandchildren; Kati (Mike) Mitchell, Zakary (Magan) Kenyon, Ronald Allerding, Kelsi (Adam) Johns, Alexis Dakin (Braden), Maicee (Brandon) VanSkyock, Lezlie (Josh) Ehredt, Samuel (Alayna) Dakin, Matthew Allerding and Cayden Herrington.  In addition to his grandchildren, he is survived by 13 great grandchildren who brought great joy to his life.  Additionally, he is survived by his brother and best friend, Robert Nelson along with many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Lial and Isabel, infant son Tommy, his sister Gwen Provost, and his infant granddaughters, Jalae Dakin and Kendra Nelson.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 25, 2023 at Thornapple Valley Church, Hastings Campus.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospital Hospitality House Henson Avenue, 1800 Henson Ave, Kalamazoo MI. 49048 or online at www.HHHKZ.org . Services provided by Girrbach Funeral Home, to leave an online condolence visit www.girrrbachfuneralhome.net .