Ronald Leon Nielsen, 89 of Sioux City, passed away peacefully on December 10, 2023. Services will be held on December 15, 2023, at Waterbury Funeral Home in Sioux City, IA. Visitation for family will be at 8:30 a.m. and open to the public from 9-10:30 a.m. Service will begin at 10:30 a.m. with a catered lunch afterwards. Private family burial services will follow.

Ron was born on October 17, 1934, to Walter and Florence (Blatchford) Nielsen of Obert, Nebraska. On June 15, 1954, Ron was united in marriage to Starr (Beyeler). They began their marriage on the farm in Laurel, Nebraska where they welcomed their first born, Kimm. Shortly after they moved to Sioux City where they continued to grow their family welcoming Rhonda, Kirk, Holly and Joel. From working on the farm to his successful businesses he believed in working hard. He was proud to tell you how hard he worked as a young boy on the farm. Ron owned and operated several businesses including Texaco and Conoco gas stations throughout the Siouxland area. He also owned Nielsen Oil and Ron’s Self-Serve Convenience store. He then went on to work at Ben Fish Tire selling tires regionally. While he worked there, he found a love of sales and traveling across the Midwest. Ron then went to work several years for Tire Associates and was known and loved by several as “Crazy Ron the Tire Man”, before retiring. However, he never really did retire as he continued to stop by Pump n Pak on Tuesdays to help put away the grocery order by stocking the shelves with his son in law, Denny.

He loved a good meal, and also enjoyed several interesting food combinations that made his family question his taste buds. One of them being his favorite snack of bologna and Oreos. He promised it’s delicious, let us know if you give it a try. He loved to be surrounded by his family, spending time outdoors, and watching his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren participate in sports and other activities. He was quick witted and loved telling a good story which always ended making the room laugh. Recently he found out how amazing pedicures are and enjoyed making visits with his grandson, Jesse. He would proudly tell everyone how great it felt and thinks you should try one too!

He is survived by sons Kimm (Sharon) of Akron, IA, Kirk (Sonja) of Sioux City, IA, Joel of Ozark, MO, daughters Rhonda (Denny) of Sioux City, IA, and Holly (Doug) of Ankeny, IA. 14 Grand Children, 13 Great Grand Children.

He was proceeded in death by his wife, his parents, 1 sister, 1 brother, 4 sisters- in- law and 5 brothers- in- law.

Ron’s Wise Words: “Do your best, do it honestly and love your family.”