Millbury/ Lunenburg, MA- Ronald V. Nelson, of Millbury and Lunenburg, Massachusetts, peacefully left to his eternal home on Monday November 2, 2015 in the presence of his loving family at his residence.
The son of the late Gustaf O. and Gladys (nee Johnson) Nelson, Ronald was born in Millbury on September 25, 1952 and lived here most of his life. He graduated in 1970 from Millbury Memorial High School in Millbury.
He is survived by his daughter and buddy-forever Kathleen A. Nelson of Millbury/East Longmeadow and her significant other David M. Tower. He also leaves his long-time partner Cindy T. Risch (Diamond) of Lunenburg. His brother Paul D. Nelson, wife Maureen and their three sons, Benjamin, Matthew, and David Nelson of Auburn. His former wife and friend Joyce S. Nelson of Worcester.
He also leaves cousins, other relatives, and many friends.
Ronald started his career at Incoterm Corp. (Honeywell) in 1971 and eventually became a general foreman. He later worked in management at Pioneer Medical Systems, Biolar Corporation, Gould, and Walker Magnetics Group.
He was a coordinator for volunteers at the UMASS Memorial Oncology Effort.
He also worked in the real estate industry including being a sole proprietor and in the home mortgage industry for several banks including Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Santander. However, his biggest passion and love was coaching and encouraging others in their pursuit of a meaningful career and fulfilling life.
Ron was baptized and confirmed at the Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Worcester and later on he was a longtime active member of Holden Chapel in Holden and volunteered in the Discovery Church for Children with his daughter, Kathleen.
He then became a member of Liberty Church in Shrewsbury. Ron was passionate about working with kids which was demonstrated by his involvement in Dreams and Wishes and the Royal Kids Camp programs at Liberty. As a volunteer, greeter, leader, and mentor, his spiritual nature and commitment to his faith and others shone through.
No one who met Ron could forget his passion for life, infectious attitude and smile, positive outlook and love for people. One of his favorite activities was spending time at the ocean and Bears Den Park in Wells, Maine with his family.
The family would like to extend their thanks to the staff at UMASS Memorial Cancer Center and Dana Farber Cancer Institute as well as Gardner VNA and Beacon Hospice.
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, November 8 at 4 pm at Liberty Church, 495 Hartford Turnpike, Shrewsbury.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Liberty Church, 495 Hartford Turnpike, Shrewsbury, MA 01545 in support of the Royal Kids Camp for foster children. Checks payable to Liberty Church with Ron Nelson mentioned in memo section.