Richard L. Nelson, 87 years, of Fort Madison, Iowa died at 12:45 am Thursday, October 6, 2016 at The Madison in Fort Madison. He was born March 25, 1929 in Galesburg, Illinois, a son of Charles Ludwig and Alice Marie (Luke) Nelson. On September 9, 1951, he married Doris Peak at Fort Madison. She survives.

Richard moved to Fort Madison when he was a young man. He worked for the Santa Fe Railroad, then left to serve in the United States Army during the Korean War. After the war he returned to Fort Madison and to his work at the railroad. He retired after more than 40 years of service. He loved bowling and even coached bowling for kids at the local bowing alleys. He also enjoyed golfing and fishing.

He is survived by his wife, Doris Nelson, of Fort Madison; two sons, Gary (Ann) Nelson, of Fort Worth, Texas and Greg Nelson, of Fort Madison; one daughter, Debra Nelson, of Naperville, Illinois; four grandchildren: Gary Jr and Donna, Heather, Kathleen, Emily and Jeremy; two great grandchildren, Tristen and Gary III; nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, one son, Steven, one brother, and one sister.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 - 11:00 am Saturday, October 8, 2016 at the Barr Memorial Chapel and Cremation Services. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 am at the funeral home, with Pastor Bill Willis officiating. Burial will be at Oakland Cemetery, Fort Madison. A memorial has been established, contributions may be made at the Barr Memorial Chapel.