Nelson, Richard W., of East Longmeadow, formerly of Needham and Wellesley, MA, passed from this life with his three daughters by his side. July 27, 2014. Only child of the late Wilbur and Christina (Casey). Loving father of Darci Jeeves of Salem, NH, Darla Minamyer and her husband, Garen, of Scott Depot, WV, and Nadine Chmura and her husband, William, of Wilbraham, MA. Grandfather of Christian Jeeves and his wife, Shalah McDonough, Kenneth Jeeves and Chad Minamyer. Survived by former wife, Barbara (Drake) Nelson, mother of his daughters. Proudly served on the Needham Fire Department for many years. Veteran of U.S. Navy. Dad was quite a character, curious about life, people and the world. He never met a stranger and loved to tell stories. He loved the author John O'Hara, Channel 5 News, Brigham's ice cream and the Patriots. He loved a road trip but also felt there was no place like home. He had a strong faith in God and we know he is now in his Eternal Home in Heaven.
Funeral from the George F. Doherty & Sons Funeral Home, 1305 Highland Ave. (Exit 19B off 128) NEEDHAM, Friday at 9AM followed by a Funeral Mass in St. Joseph Church, Needham, at 10AM. Relatives and friends kindly invited. Visiting hours Thursday 4-7PM. Interment in St. Mary Cemetery, Needham. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 11454, Alexandra, VA 22312.