Steven Thomas Nielsen

Steven Thomas Nielsen

May 25, 1947 - April 30, 2024

NAPA - Steve slid peacefully into home, cheered on by his family and friends, on April 30, 2024, at the age of 76.

He is survived by his pitching coach, Colleen Nielsen; his centerfielder and left fielder, Corey and Faith Nielsen; and his ball dudes: Makana and Aspen Nielsen.

Steve was born in Minnesota and raised in Southern California by his wonderful parents, Thomas and Barbara Nielsen (Dunning). As a child, he loved St. Louis Cardinals hall-of-famer Stan Musial. He attended Cal Poly Pamona and played baseball under legendary coach John Scolinas before being drafted by the Kansas City Royals and playing two years in their minor league system. Like Satchell Paige, Steve then barnstormed from Southern California to Lake Tahoe, Tucson, Oregon, Washington, New York, and Canada, where he once pitched all 18 innings of a 1-0 game.

In 2022, Steve witnessed New York Yankee Aaron Judges' historic 60th home run in one of the greatest games in baseball history. Steve served in the National Guard. He was a longtime superintendent with Stevens Hemingway Stevens and built his family home in Browns Valley in 1987, featuring now-mighty redwood trees rescued as saplings from a job site. Steve was a passionate Giants, Warriors, and 49ers fan, a dedicated environmentalist, a toothpick aficionado, and a generous and humble philanthropist.

Steve was an avid local golfer who had 2 hole-in-ones and served on the men's club at the Napa Golf Course at Kennedy Park.

Steve had a deep love and appreciation for his longtime friends, many of whom he bestowed unique and creative nicknames upon.

At Steve's request, there will be no formal services.

Condolences can be sent to Colleenonmaui@yahoo.com.