David Richards Nielsen

David Richards Nielsen, born February 18, 1951, in Salt Lake City, Utah, passed away peacefully on March 15, 2025, surrounded by his beloved wife, Rebecca (Becky), and their four children in his Mesa, Arizona home. A man of extraordinary character, David's life was defined by unwavering faith, boundless love, and an indomitable spirit.
David was the sixth of eleven children born to Arthur Hansen and Vera Richards Nielsen. His childhood was marked by a profound work ethic, vibrant family life, and a love for learning and sports. A student body president and Hope of America Award recipient in elementary school, senior class president and standout athlete in high school, David's early accomplishments set the tone for a life of excellence.
A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, David served a two-year mission in Germany, an experience that shaped his lifelong commitment to faith and service. David earned a BA in Business Management and then his Doctor of Medicine from the University of Utah where he completed a Residency in Otolaryngology. He furthered his training as a Specialist in Otologic Surgery, completing a Fellowship in Detroit, MI. As a pioneering ear surgeon in Phoenix, he performed one of the first cochlear implants in Arizona, and championed advancements in medical care, including the use of laser ear surgery.
David's career extended beyond medicine into leadership roles with the Arizona Medical Association and at the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, where he served as CEO for 14 years. He was known for his visionary leadership and passion for improving healthcare systems. He had a great appreciation for all of the staff and many physicians and other healthcare advocates he had the blessing of knowing in his professional career.
David's personal life was equally rich. In 1973, he was married for time and all eternity to Rebecca (Becky) Child in the Salt Lake City, Utah Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They built a beautiful life together filled with adventure, music, and deep spiritual devotion. One of David's passions was cycling which he shared with his family on frequent Saturday morning rides. He and Becky spent countless hours riding a tandem bicycle together, including several trips cycling through Vermont. David cherished his role as a husband, as a father to Joel, Heidi, Jared, and Trevor, and as a grandfather to 14 grandchildren, who were his greatest joy.
David faced a nine-year battle with multiple myeloma and, later, pancreatic cancer, with resilience and grace. Through it all, his faith never wavered. He found solace in scripture study, temple service, and meaningful relationships with caregivers and loved ones. David and his family were profoundly grateful for the compassionate care he received from his many healthcare providers.
David will be remembered as a man of kindness, gratitude, and unyielding optimism. His legacy is one of love, faith, and service-a beacon of light to all who knew him. He now rests in eternal peace, reunited with his Savior and those who have gone before him.
David is survived by his wife, Becky, his children, Joel (Staci) Nielsen, Heidi (Glen) Millett, Jared Nielsen, Trevor (Michelle) Nielsen, and 14 beloved grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a still-born daughter, Rebecca Nielsen, a sister, Marie Schreiner, and a brother, Ralph R. Nielsen.
Memorial services will be held on Saturday, March 29th 11:00am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints - 7752 E McDowell Rd, Mesa, Arizona 85207. Visitations will be held at this location on Friday, March 28th 6:30pm-8:00pm, and Saturday, March 29th 10:00am-10:45am before the memorial services.
Flower donations can be made through Wyman Cremation and Burial Chapel or delivered directly to the memorial service location Friday, March 28th after 1:00pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center's Patient Assistance Fund in David's honor - give.bannerhealth.com/davidnielsenmemorial.