Vail Howard Nielson

Vail Howard Nielson 1927 ~ 2008 Vail Howard Nielson, husband, father, grandfather, brother, and good friend of many, died September 27, 2008 in Gunnison, Utah.Vail was born December 17, 1927 in Ephraim, Utah to Charles Howard and Afton L. Nielson. He spent his life in Ephraim surrounded by good friends and family. He began working on the family farm with his father and grandfather at a young age. Upon the death of his father, he proudly entered the Navy to serve his country during World War II. He loved his country and often cried at flag ceremonies. After his honorable discharge from the Navy, he married the love of his life, Colleen Jensen in Fairview, Utah. This marriage was later solemnized in the Manti Temple. Vail was promised numerous posterity in his Patriarchal Blessing; this promise was fulfilled with the birth of seven children, 28 grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren, who were his most prized possessions. Vail started working in the cattle industry in 1946 with the help of his Grandpa Joe. Starting with 18 head of cattle, he developed a successful cattle business stretching from Utah throughout the Midwest; the ranch continues today with his sons and grandchildren. Vail was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served faithfully in many callings. In 1997, he was called by the First Presidency to serve as First Counselor in the Manti Temple presidency with his wife Colleen serving as Assistant Matron. He continued to serve faithfully in the temple until his death. Vail loved to spend time with his family. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time in the mountains. Vail and Colleen especially loved their cabin at Schofield. Vail is survived by his wife of 62 years, Colleen; his children, Richard (Marcea), Joe (Ruth), Kim (Gayle), Clair (Kathy), Linda (Rick) Wheeler, Charlie (Patty), Blake (Debbie); sister, Julie (Ron) Stapley; brother-in- law, Waynard Jensen. He is preceded in death by his parents and sister Pat. Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, October 1, 2008 at the Ephraim Stake Center (400 East Center) at 12:00 noon. A viewing will be held Tuesday evening, September 30, 2008 from 6-8 p.m. and prior to the funeral services from 10-11:30 a.m. Interment in the Ephraim Park Cemetery under care of Rasmussen Mortuary.