Richard Lee Nelson

Richard Lee Nelson

October 9, 1955-March 27, 2026

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Richard Lee Nelson at the age of 70. Predeceased by his parents Elmer and Helen Nelson from Framingham Massachusetts. Richard is survived by his sister Beverly Mathewson, while reunited with his siblings: James (Jimmy) Nelson and Barbara Smith.

Treasured and devoted father to Chad Nelson and Jennie Papineau (Brent). Proud grandfather to Ayden, Lucas, Ava, James, and Lucy

Richard will be forever missed by many of his relatives in Boston: Stacey and Brian, David and Carol, Brenda, Karen, Heather and Kace, Mick and Taylor and the late Vickey Philiben (Mark).

Richard was one of the top hockey players in the state in 1972 and this earned him a spot as a youth counselor at the Bobby Orr/Mike Walton sports camp in Orillia, Ontario.

Richard would go on to play for the Soo Greyhounds as a wingman beside Paul Woods. The following season brought him to the Windsor Spitfires where his team won the SOJHL Championship in 1974.

Richard also played for both the Trois-Rivieres Draveures and the Shawinigan Dynamos of the Quebec Junior League scoring a game 7 winner in the playoffs.

He finished off his Jr career with the Chatham Maroons in 1977.

After his time on the ice, Richard devoted over 30 years to working for Ford Motor Company, where he was known for his hard work and loyalty. Rick continued his passion for hockey playing for the Civic league in Windsor and participating in tournaments with many different teams alongside his friends.

He was a longtime supporter and season ticket holder of the Windsor Spitfires.

Rick was a simple man who loved sports, car rides, coffee, and a great bargain. He will be missed by many friends, especially Randy Nouvion and Bob Clifford whom he shared a special bond with.

A special thank you goes out to all the staff at Erie Shores hospital and Hospice in Leamington.

To honour Ricks love for hockey, please join us for one final skate on Sunday April 19th at WFCU in Windsor. It will be held on the Greenshield rink from 4:30pm-5:30pm. Celebration of Life for friends and family will be held from 6:30-8:30 in the Windsor room at the Caboto Club