Dear Friends of the
Paranormal Research Forum
A Tribute to Rick Nelson
It is with deep respect and gratitude that we share this remembrance of Rick Nelson, founder of the Paranormal Research Forum, who passed away on New Year’s Eve.
The PRF was Rick’s Passion & Purpose!
His Words Whisper to Our Hearts…
“THE SHOW MUST TO ON!”
Rick’s close circle of family and friends is committed to carrying the Paranormal Research Forum forward. Your presence has always been the heart of the Forum, attending meetings, participating in events, and contributing financially—as you are able—will help us cover the practical needs required to keep the PRF active. Your support honors Rick’s vision and allows this gathering of like-minded explorers to continue for years to come.
With that inspiration, we hope you’ll join us on January 21st for a special PRF presentation by Simeon Hein—an evening of insight and meaningful connection. Rick, our angel, will likely be there with us in spirit. It will be a meaningful gathering, and we truly look forward to sharing the experience with all of you.
A Celebration of Life Service is in the planning stages and will be announced as soon as confirmation of date, place, and time has been scheduled.
Rick founded the Paranormal Research Forum (PRF) in Denver, Colorado in December of 2004. What began as a small gathering of curious minds grew into what became widely known as the world’s largest monthly meeting devoted to paranormal inquiry. Through PRF, Rick created a space where people could openly explore subjects that are often misunderstood, dismissed, or left unexplored—always with curiosity, respect, and discernment.
At the heart of Rick’s work was a lifelong desire to understand reality more completely. He believed that many of humanity’s greatest questions—about consciousness, unexplained phenomena, and the nature of existence—could not be answered by science or spirituality alone, but by thoughtfully bridging the two. His investigations were never about belief for belief’s sake, but about careful observation, firsthand experience, and honest inquiry into what is and what is not.
Rick’s journey as a researcher began in earnest in the summer of 1987, following a reported UFO encounter in a remote area of Utah. That early expedition, combined with compelling accounts from local residents, convinced him that certain phenomena warranted deeper, open-minded investigation. From that point forward, his life became an ongoing exploration of the unknown.
Over the years, PRF became a unique meeting ground for an extraordinarily broad range of voices and perspectives. Rick worked with and learned from scientists, academics, military and intelligence professionals, medical practitioners, historians, Indigenous elders, investigators, experiencers, and individuals with a wide variety of skills, insights, and lived experiences. This diversity allowed the Forum to approach complex subjects from multiple angles, fostering thoughtful dialogue rather than easy conclusions.
Rick’s curiosity was rooted early in life. Growing up in rural southwestern Ohio, he spent countless hours observing nature—plants, animals, weather, and ecosystems—learning how systems interact and support one another. He carried this same observational discipline into adulthood, always questioning simple explanations and remaining open to deeper patterns and connections.
After high school, Rick joined the U.S. Navy and served in Air Intelligence, an experience that sharpened his analytical skills and reinforced the importance of discernment. Later, he dedicated many years to civic service, serving on more than 90 boards, panels, and commissions. Over time, disillusionment with institutional priorities led him to refocus his energy on independent research and public education through the Forum.
In his later years, Rick often reflected that humanity still knows far less than it assumes. His work continued to be guided by questions rather than conclusions—who we are, where we come from, why we are here, and what we may yet discover. He believed that understanding, not fear, was the proper response to the unknown.
Rick Nelson leaves behind a legacy of curiosity, openness, and community. The Paranormal Research Forum stands as a testament to his belief that respectful inquiry and shared exploration can expand understanding and bring people together across the expanse of interests.
The PRF was never just a meeting to him—it was a gathering of kindred spirits, and every person who attended was truly dear to his heart. He loved this community deeply. Even now, many of us can still hear his gentle, encouraging voice urging us to stay curious and stay connected.
With much love! Rene, Carol, Jan, BJ & Mark