Retired Lt. Gen. W.R. “Dick” Nelson, 82, whose distinguished U.S. Air Force career spanned 35 years from the closing days of World War II through Vietnam and the Cold War days, died early Friday morning, Oct. 3, 2008.
After retirement, he became the head of the Military Ministry of Campus Crusade for Christ and was a member of The Executive Leadership Council. He was a graduate of Indiana University and received a master's degree from George Washington University.
His highly decorated Air Force career began in June, 1949 and ended with his retirement at the end of May, 1983 during which time he was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Vietnam Service Medal, Distinguished Flying Cross, the Meritorious Service Medal, and many others.
His career included a number of command positions. Prior to retirement, he was Commander of the 12th Air Force (Tactical Command), Bergstrom Air Force Base, Austin, Texas. His career also included the position of Vice Commander of the 16th Air Force with headquarters at Torrejon Air Base, Spain.
He flew 160 combat missions in F-4 Phantoms during his tour of duty with the 366th Tactical Fighter Wing at Da Nang Air Base, and he also flew 39 combat missions in F-111's when he was deployed to Takhli Royal Air Force Base, Thailand.
He lived in Craft Farms where he enjoyed playing golf, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. He was an active member of Grace Fellowship Church (PCA) in Gulf Shores.
Survivors include his wife, Donna Barnes Nelson; three children, Catherine (John) Fry, Steve (partner Brian) Nelson and Lynn (Charlie) Unruh; Donna’s four daughters and families; and 12 grandchildren.
Visitation was held Tuesday, Oct. 7 at Pine Rest Funeral Home. Funeral services were held Wednesday, Oct. 8 at Grace Fellowship Church (PCA) in Gulf Shore. Interment followed at Barrancus National Cemetery, Pensacola, Fla.
The family requests memorial donations be made to Grace Fellowship Church or a charity of your choice.
Arrangements are by Pine Rest Funeral Home Inc., Foley.
