Ronald Dee Nelson

Ronald Dee Nelson passed away peacefully on May 13, 2026, at the age of 93. He was born on August 1, 1932, in Genola Utah to Radcliffe and Thelma Rosley Nelson. He married Della Mae Mower in the Manti Temple on January 8, 1953. They later divorced, and he married Dorothy Nix on November 14, 1995.

Ronald spent many years in the life insurance business while pursuing numerous entrepreneurial adventures throughout his life. From the furniture business to working on airplanes, he enjoyed learning and experiencing many different trades and opportunities.

Ronald loved fast cars and the thrill of acceleration. He could listen to almost any vehicle or drive it and quickly tell what was wrong with it, passing his mechanical knowledge and love of fixing cars on to his sons. His love of speed began in childhood while growing up on a farm. He often fondly spoke of his “old red mare,” proudly recalling how he could outrun anyone in town.

Ronald was also gifted with a beautiful singing voice and received the Curtis Vocal Award in 1951 for his performance in the high school opera.

He served his country during the Korean War after being drafted into the military and was honorably discharged in January 1955.

Ronald was well known for his humor and quick one-liners. The staff at Monument Care Center affectionately nicknamed him the “Speed Demon” because he loved racing his electric chair down the halls as fast as he could.

Ronald is survived by his children: Jeff Nelson (Diane), Stuart Nelson (Kelly Jo), Kris Tucholski (Don), Susan Holbrook (Randy), Ruth Cooper (Mont), Perry Nelson (Lori), Burke Nelson (Brenda), and Jessie Carroll (John), along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He is also survived by his brother, Jerry Nelson (Jayne); and sisters-in-law Larraine Nelson, Donna Nelson, Pat Nelson, and Anna Rae Nelson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Radcliffe and Thelma Nelson; his wives, Della Mae Nelson and Dorothy Nix; his brothers Gilbert, Buriness, Darrell, Don, Gerry, and Arnold Nelson; and his sisters Claris Ann Nelson and Maureen Davis.

A graveside funeral service will be held on Monday, May 18, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Elysian Gardens.