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Richard Elmer Nelson ’50

A picture of Dick Nelson

Richard Elmer Nelson ’50, March 18, 2013, in Anacortes, Washington. During World War II, Dick enlisted with the Army Air Corps and served in the 16th Weather Squadron. He studied at Reed for two years and completed a BA in chemistry at Oregon State College in 1949. That same year, he married Joyce L. Holen ’50; they raised a son and daughter. Dick worked as a resin chemist with American Marietta and also was employed with Georgia Pacific and U.S. Plywood. He and Joyce lived for many years in Rock Hill, South Carolina. He retired as vice president of operations and manager of the Catawba Hardboard plant in Catawba, South Carolina, in 1987. Following that, Dick and Joyce returned to the Pacific Northwest and enjoyed a home in Anacortes with a view of the San Juan Islands, the surrounding waters, and gorgeous sunsets. They also enjoyed travel abroad and time spent with their children and grandchildren at their cabin in a remote part of British Columbia. Dick is survived by Joyce; their daughter, Janis, and son, Craig; and four grandchildren.

Appeared in Reed magazine: September 2013

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