Richard "Dick" Allen Nerling, 78, of Cumberland passed away on Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at Marshfield Medical Center in Rice Lake. He was born April 5, 1947 in to Richard and Hazel (Topper) Nerling.

Dick worked on the family farm until graduating from Cumberland High. He was always inspired by airplanes - building and flying model airplanes.

He went to school for airplane mechanics and flight instructing. Then, he got drafted in the Army, so to work in the aviation field, he joined the Army Airforce. He was supposed to go to Vietnam, but then got lucky, as they lost his orders. He then was stationed in Alaska. When he got out of the service, he worked automotive in California, then came home and worked at Bents Motors in Comstock. Later, he worked for the Cumberland Airport, before starting his own business, Nerling Aviation, in Boyceville.

Along the way, he was married to Paula Wolf, who preceded him in death in 2008. Together they had one son, Matt.

Dick is survived by son, Matt Nerling; brothers, David and Bo Nerling; nephew, Tom (Amber) Nerling; niece, Kristina (Carri Jo Bunker) Nerling; brother-in-law, Toby McKay; nephew, Robert Miller; good friend, Albert Paffel; as well as some great nieces and nephews.

Dick was preceded in death by wife, Paula; parents, Richard and Hazel Nerling; and sister, Donna McKay.

Funeral services will be held at 11 AM on Thursday, May 1, 2025 at Zion Lutheran Church of Almena. Visitation will be one hour prior at church.

Last Update: Apr 28, 2025 1:41 pm CDT