Ronnie Lee Nelson Sr., 71, of Cuba, Missouri, passed away, Tuesday, August 11, 2026, in the comforting presence of his beloved wife, at their home. 

On September 7, 1954, Ron was born to the union of Paul Nelson Sr. and Irma "Jean" Crews in Denver, Colorado.

He was united in marriage to Darlene Spurgeon, on December 14, 1985, at the Cuba Presbyterian Church in Cuba, Missouri. 

Ron was a self-employed contractor for many years. 

He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying many hobbies such as hunting, fishing and gigging. Ron was known to be a "grill master", along with taking pride in cooking as well. Ron would throw the best fish fries and his family and friends benefited from his talents with BBQ. He spent a lot of time working with his hands and he was especially talented when it came to woodwork. Staying active outside was important to Ron, with camping, four-wheeling and boat riding but he always found ways to relax outdoors by watching and feeding the birds and tending to his fruitful garden. Ron was a big NASCAR fan which inspired his chance to serve as a crew chief for a local racing team. Most of all Ron loved getting together with his family, friends and especially his grandkids. He will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him. 

Ron was preceded in death by his mother, Irma "Jean" Nelson; father-in-law, Eugene Spurgeon. 

He is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Darlene Nelson of Cuba; children, Ronnie Nelson Jr. of Cuba, Angie (Kyle) Treadwell of New Mexico, Ryan Nelson of Springfield & Alex Nelson of Cuba; half-brother, Paul Nelson Jr. of Maryland; mother-in-law, Ruth Spurgeon of Cuba; siblings-in-law, Donna Perry of Nixa, Diane Spurgeon of Cuba, Debbie (Jason) Anderson of Farmington, David Spurgeon of Cuba & Mark (Randi) Spurgeon of Cuba; grandchildren, Tyler Nelson, Kloe Nelson, Kyan Nelson, Banx Treadwell & Bentley Treadwell; other relatives and many friends. 

A visitation will be held on Friday, August 21, 2026, at Mizell Funeral Home & Crematory from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. A funeral service will follow at 1:00 P.M. Burial will take place following the funeral service at Bowen Cemetery in Bland, Missouri. 

Arrangements are under the compassionate care of Mizell Funeral Home & Crematory of Cuba, Missouri.