Richard Edward Wilson, Sr., 86, passed away on Monday, February 13, 2017, at Good Samaritan in Syracuse, Nebraska. Born in Cedar Creek on October 25, 1930, to Edward Levi and Doris Thelma (Smith) Wilson, Richard was the second of three children. He spent some of his early years near Otoe, but was a Cass County resident of the Weeping Water and Avoca area for most of his life.
Richard joined the U.S. Army in 1952, and was stationed in Korea for roughly a year. However, he began his lifelong career of farming in 1945 while still in high school, a passion that he returned to after coming home from the service. He would continue this way of life in his retired years by tending to tomato plants in his backyard.
Richard and Ruby Kathleen Noerrlinger were married on August 11, 1951 in the Avoca Congregational Church. The couple then moved to a farm north of Avoca where their four boys were born. Rick, Ronnie, Robert and Roger were his pride and joy. He enjoyed spending his free time watching their athletic events where he was often the most boisterous fan in the crowd. He taught them to love and care for others the way he did, passing on a heart for giving and serving.
Proud was an understatement when it came to his family. He used any willing ear as an opportunity to brag about his children and grandchildren. His smile could go on for days when he spoke of their talents and accomplishments.
Richard and Ruby built a foundation for a beautiful family. He spoke often of his love for his wife, and together they taught their family how to love and live life with humor. Richard’s quick wit and a smart tongue gave no room to wonder where his boys and grandchildren get their spunk. Even on his worst days, a quick response was enough reassurance that the man we all know and love was there. His quirks made him a joy to be around, and all knew his love of Sweet’n Low and red beer. A heart of gold, he was loved by all.
Richard was a member of The American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Eagles in Nebraska City. Baptized at the age of 18, he later became a member of First Lutheran Church of Avoca where he served as Church Council Treasurer.
Richard is survived by his wife Ruby (Noerrlinger) Wilson. Children and spouses include: Richard and Shelly Wilson of Avoca; Ronald and Sherri Wilson of Avoca; Robert and Linda Wilson of O’Fallon, IL; and Roger and Sherri Wilson of Bern, KS. Grandchildren include: Brandy (& William) Ahrens, Weeping Water; Ryan (& Amanda) Wilson, Weeping Water; Ian Bickford, Brazil; Whitney Wilson, Lincoln; Morgan (& Tyler) Brunsting, Lincoln; Dayne Wilson, Weeping Water; Nate Wilson, Chicago, IL; Meghan Wilson, Springfield, MO; Bridgette Wilson, O’Fallon, IL; Bailey Wilson, Lynchburg, VA; Jordan Wilson, Kansas City, MO; Mykah Wilson, Lincoln; Savannah Wilson, Lincoln; Elijah Wilson, Bern, KS. Great-grandchildren include: Levi, Madison, Alexis and Brooklyn Ahrens, Weeping Water; Reba, Raelyn, and Riggs Wilson, Weeping Water. His siblings include Lois Bornemeier, Elmwood. He has many nieces, nephews, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, and friends. Richard was preceded in death by his parents Edward & Doris Wilson, and brother, Teddy Wilson.
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