Richard Lee Nester

Richard Lee Nester, age 77, of San Angelo, Texas passed away on June 10, 2022, surrounded by his family. Rick Nester was born March 4, 1945, in Hondo, Texas to Maurice & Emma Nester. As a child he worked on the family farm with his siblings and enjoyed hunting and fishing in nearby pastures and creeks. In high school, he was a multi-sport varsity athlete, lettering in football, basketball, and baseball at D’Hanis High School. Rick was also active in the Future Farmers of America (“FFA”), where he served as President his senior year. Well-liked by his peers, he was voted “class favorite” his sophomore year and "most handsome" his senior year. After graduation, Rick joined the U.S. Air Force Reserve and served a one-year tour of duty in South Korea. Upon return to the States, he met and married the love of his life, Pam Copeland, in 1970. Rick made a lifelong career as a railroader, riding as a Conductor on the Southern Pacific Railroad (later merged into Union Pacific) for 41 years in Del Rio, Texas. He retired in 2007 and moved to San Angelo, Texas. Being a devoted husband and hard-working father was of the utmost importance to Rick. He constantly worked the "extra board" to provide the best possible life for his family. When Rick was not working, he enjoyed all things outdoors, frequently hunting and fishing or playing softball and golf. Throughout the years, he and Pam enjoyed travelling, snow skiing and country dancing with friends. Later in life, Rick received tremendous joy from spending time with his grandchildren and church family. Rick is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Pam Nester, and their children: daughter and son-in-law Lisa and Greg Williams; daughter and son-in-law Sandy and Todd Smith and their children: Emily Smith and Brandon Smith; son and daughter-in-law Lee and Jessica Nester and their children: Clara Nester and Adelle Nester. Rick is also survived by his sister Norma Lundberg; brother and sister-in-law James and Claudia Nester; sister Carol Easley; and sister Dorothy Deason, as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Maurice & Emma Nester. There will be a celebration of life at Glen Meadows Baptist Church in San Angelo, Texas on June 25th, 2022, at 11:00 AM. There will be visitation and lunch at the same location immediately following the service for close family and friends. The family would like to give a special thanks to the caring staff at Hospice of San Angelo, Shannon Medical Center 5 North and Dr. Punnoose. Family and friends can share online condolences at www.harper-funeralhome.com