Merrill Keith Nelson
The Peanut King of Riverside California
March 13, 1943 to June 26, 2026
Merrill Nelson was born in Montpelier, Idaho, to Keith Nelson and Loda Nelson (Wallentine), with severe athetoid cerebral palsy. Wheelchair bound and completely dependent on the assistance of others, he was raised in Ogden, Utah. At the age of 18, his parents divorced, and he was placed in a rest home. In 1965, with the help of a Christian missionary, he left the rest home and made his way to San Bernardino, California, where he met Cherie Cox. They married and moved to Riverside, California, in the Fall of 1967. Together, they had a son in 1969, Royal Nelson. Merrill Nelson was determined to get off financial assistance and make his own way in life by selling produce from his wheelchair. While produce was too difficult to maintain, he decided to sell peanuts. This proved to be his namesake – The Peanut King. He was able to raise his son and sustain his needs without government assistance, beginning in 1977. Every day, rain or shine, he would be out there selling his peanuts, counseling others, and making a living. Merrill Nelson is fondly remembered in Riverside, California, for his faith in Jesus Christ, big smile, resilience, strength and perseverance.
Merrill Nelson passed away on June 26, 2026 due to ventilator assisted pneumonia. He is survived by his son, Royal W.R. Nelson and his wife Shannon D. Nelson, three grandchildren, Ryan Nelson, Sarah Vejnar (Nelson) and Justin Nelson. Three great grandchildren, Ella Vejnar, Audrey Vejnar and Karina Ledezma. His brother, Kim K. Nelson and wife Melissa Nelson. His niece Rainy Straber(Nelson) and nephews David Nelson and Dustin Nelson, along with many cousins.
