Richard T. Nelson, 89, of Moose Lake, died Saturday, January 3, 2026, at home with family by
his side. He was born on June 6, 1936, in Mahtowa, MN, to Thure and Arbie Nelson.  He
attended Mathowa and Barnum schools.  On May 14th, 1954, Richard married Beverly
Woullett. Together, they raised their five children in Barnum.  Richard worked for Nelco Gas and
Fuel, partnering with his father and brother, Harold.  He was instrumental in the building of the
gas station/restaurant complex overlooking Bear Lake in Barnum.  After selling the business in
1977, Richard worked for Smitty's Ready Mix in Barnum.  Richard was a member of the
Barnum Community Club, the Moose Horn Rod and Gun Club, and the Barnum Volunteer Fire
Department, where he served as chief for seven years.  He was a member of the Barnum
Community United Methodist Church.  He enjoyed time with family and friends, but his passion
was snowmobiling.  He and Beverly rode the local trails and went West many winters, going on
a Colorado tour group to ride in the Rocky Mountains.  Richard was preceded in death by his
parents, Thure and Arbie; siblings, Shirley, Harold, Joyce, Barbara, and daughter-in-law Gayle
(Mark) Nelson. Richard is survived by his wife of 72 years, Beverly; children, Mark, David (Bette
Jayne), Tim (Jane), Lynet, Rick (Pam); 11 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren, 2 great
grandchildren, and sister Marie Thompson.
Services will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at the Barnum Community United
Methodist Church, 3762 Front Street, Barnum, MN.  Visitation from 10am-11am, funeral service
at 11 a.m. with a meal to follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Richard's name may be made to the Barnum Volunteer Fire
Department or the Barnum Community United Methodist Church.