Reuben W. Nelson, 93, passed away October 27, 2012 at Crossroads Assisted Living in Rifle.

Reuben was born October 9, 1919 in Meeker to Robert & Leona (Reynolds) Nelson. He proudly served his country in the Army (Cavalry) during WWII. He was stationed in the Pacific Front and earned a Purple Heart before his discharge in 1946. Two years later, he married Leila Ogden. They ranched at many locations on the western slope before Reuben went to work for the US Forest Service and settled the family in Gypsum. He had a deep love of ranching and the outdoors. After the loss of his wife in 1993, he returned to Rifle.

Reuben was preceded in death by his wife, Leila; daughter, Ruby Wolfe; and sister, Sarah Ridgeway.

He leaves behind his daughters Iva Osburn, Dena (Randy) Thompson; son-in-law, Bruce Wolfe; sister Mary Plowman; granddaughters Lisa (John) Gau and Jennifer (Jeff) Lamb; three great-granddaughters and one great-grandson.

Graveside services were held Wednesday, October 31, 2:00pm at Russey-Hurlburt Cemetery in Parachute. Sean Jeung officiated.

Affiliations

American Theater Ribbon
Asiatic Pacific Theater Campaign Ribbon
Good Conduct Medal
Philippine Liberation Medal
Purple Heart Award from the U.S. Military
US Army
U.S. Forest Service
Veteran
WWII Victory Medal