Ronald. L. Nelsen, "Ron," was with loved ones when he was called home to be with his Lord on April 24, 2022.

Ron was born on July 23, 1935 in Chicago, Illinois. His family settled soon thereafter in North Dakota, where his father farmed and ranched for his entire life. Ron graduated from North Dakota State with a degree in Agriculture but taking over the family farm took a back seat to ROTC and a career in the Army. He served as an officer for over 20 years, had two tours in Vietnam and retired as a Lt. Colonel in 1978.

While stationed at Ft. Lewis in the late 1950's, Ron met Joanne Morris. They married in 1960 and raised five children together until Joanne passed away in 1980. After working for several companies, and when all his children were out of school, Ron "retired" again to follow his heart and become a missionary to serve the Lord. After a year studying French in Ottawa, his missionary organization sent him to Niger, Africa. Here he found purpose and an unexpected blessing, Pauline Clarke. Pauline was a lifelong missionary and nurse, also serving in Niger, and they spent their entire marriage serving in various locations until her passing in 2010.

Ron moved back to Spokane not long after to be close to family. He loved spending time with children, grandchildren, and later, great-grandchildren. He was a fan of Gonzaga Basketball and had been a season ticket holder for the Lady Zags. An avid Seahawks fan, each game he could be found somewhere watching it, alternatively cheering, or trying to keep from cursing, depending on how the game was going. Through it all, his faith was his rock, and he treasured his church family at Northview Bible Church.

Ron is preceded in death by his father, Lewis, his mother, Florence, and his sister, Pat. He is survived by his sister Diane, his children Steve (Kym), Lori, David (Paula), Jeffrey (Jennifer) and Julie. He was the embarrassingly proud grandpa of numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, all of whom he loved without limit.

Sherman-Campbell Funeral & Cremation Services in Newport, WA is in charge of arrangements.  Family and friends are invited to sign the online guest book at shermancampbell.com .