Obituary of Rick Nelson

Rick Nelson, 73, of Peoria, passed away on Wednesday, April 5, 2023, at UnityPoint Methodist in Peoria. He was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan on January 23, 1950, to Richard and Pearl (Peterson) Nelson. He married Jane Koenig in Peoria on October 17, 1998; she survives. He is also survived by his children, Graham (Alicia) Nelson of Myrtle Beach, SC and Grant Nelson of New Orleans, LA; 2 sisters, Janis Campbell of Hilton Head, SC and Judy (Gary) Graham of Ponte Vedra, FL; 4 grandchildren, Jackson, Brooks, Carson, and Jonah; his great-granddaughter, Zoe; 3 stepchildren, Amy Luczaj, Jenny (Scott) Sheets, and Daniel (Stacey) Reynolds; and 9 step-grandchildren, Jessica, Jacob, Alyssa, Riley, Vincent, Lauren, Delaney, Gavin, and Nolan. He was preceded in death by his parents. Rick graduated from Richwoods High School in 1968, then received his bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Ohio in 1972. He began his career managing at Peoria Kitchen Tops, then later became a licensed insurance agent affiliated with, or under the name of Nelson Insurance Agency, Hawk Insurance Agency, Pearl Insurance Agency, and Preston Insurance Agency. Rick was a loving husband, father, and grandfather who was known for his sense of humor. He was a great friend to many and loved golf, vacationing in Destin, FL, and trips to Nevada. He was a member of the Rotary Club of North Peoria, Mt. Hawley Country Club, Masonic Lodge, Mohammed Shrine, and the Royal Order of Jesters, Court 40. Cremation rites have been accorded. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Cremation Specialist of Central Illinois is assisting the family. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice. Online condolences may be left at www.CSOFIL.com.