Ronald (Ronnie) Clyde Nielsen

Ronald (Ronnie) Clyde Nielsen, 74, died peacefully Wednesday, June 15, 2016, at his home in Columbia, Missouri surrounded by family. Ron was born in Houston, Texas to Clyde Elwood and Hazel (Hassie) Irene Nielsen. His family moved to Columbia when he was eight years old. At 14, Ron found himself working and responsible for supporting his brother Rick and his mother. He graduated from Hickman High School in 1960. Ron married Kim Schenewerk in 1988. They raised their daughters Krista and Zoey in Columbia, Missouri. Ron and his first wife, Dolores (Dody) Duvall, raised their sons Tim, Todd and Chris in Marshall, Missouri. Ron began his career as a dishwasher and was later promoted to chef at Christian College, now Columbia College. In 1962, Ron was on What's My Line and stumped the panel. They were not able to guess that Ron was the youngest chef at a women's college. Following the show, Ron was sought after by several restaurants nationally, but he did not want to leave Missouri. Ron was a tireless businessman and taught others to work hard. He mentored many in the business. He helped many reach their potential through his example of hard work, perseverance, and generosity. In 1972, Ron started American Food Management in Marshall, Missouri. The company provided food service to Missouri Valley College and over the next 14 years grew to serving 140 schools/facilities in 34 states. Ron, sold American Food Management in 1986. Ron also owned Millstone Lodge and Resort at the Lake of the Ozarks, Sachs Sixth Avenue Restaurant, The Ice Chalet, AmeriServe and helped to finance the opening of Peachtree Banquet Center. Ron was an exceptional business partner and set an example of business excellence, dedication, and loyalty for his employees. Ron was a member of the Board of Directors for Columbia College and Missouri Valley College for many years. With his family, Ron enjoyed many weekends fishing, skiing and boating at the Lake of the Ozarks. Ron also enjoyed deep sea fishing, playing cards, collecting coins, and spending time with his pups. He gave freely to others. He had a huge heart and passion for the care and protection of animals. Ron was a charismatic man admired by all. He was witty, sarcastic and known for speaking his mind. He had the ability to positively impact others and was full of life and love. He will be dearly missed. Ron is survived by his wife Kim Nielsen, brother Rick; sons Tim, Todd, and Chris; daughters Krista Schenewerk Spradlin (Chris) and Zoey Rodriguez, grandchildren Tyler (Sophie), Lexie, Samantha, Hanna, Henry, and Hannah. He was preceded in death by his parents. A celebration of Ron's life will be hosted at Christian Fellowship Church, 4600 Christian Fellowship Road Columbia, Missouri 65203 at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 19, 2016. A private family burial will be held at Midway Locust Grove United Methodist Church Cemetery. Condolences can be left in the online guest book at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Central Missouri Humane Society or Second Chance.