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BORN
1942
DIED
2017
FUNERAL HOME
3115 Bengal Blvd.
Cottonwood Heights, Utah
Robert Nelson Obituary
On New Years' Day, Robert Leon Nelson's gentle heart gave out.
A great light in the lives of many flickered out after a valiant struggle through many illnesses, pain and suffering. He successfully fulfilled his earthly mission with honor, righteousness and integrity.
He is much loved and adored and will be greatly missed by those who survive him.
Leon is survived by his devoted companion of 52 years, Carole; son Jon; daughters Robyn, Cami, Missy, Julie and 11 grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, brother James, and grandson Aiden. He felt his two greatest accomplishments were his marriage and his family.
Leon was born March 2, 1942, in Arizona, and grew up with three brothers and two sisters. His health problems started early but throughout life he maintained a positive outlook and his spirit remained steadfast in faithfulness to the Lord.
His life was an example of selfless service, not only to family, but to those with whom he came in contact. He served his mission in Chile, and held many callings in the LDS church including; Bishop and Stake Patriarch. Service was always a priority and he loved those whom he served. One of his trademarks has always been a keen sense of humor and wit, which he maintained until his last days. He was truly a remarkable man with a heart of gold, and the outpouring of love demonstrates how many considered him a friend.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, January 7, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at the LDS Chapel located at 1265 East 11000 South in Sandy, UT. Viewings will be held Friday, January 6, 2016 from 6:00-8:00 p.m., and Saturday morning from 10:00-10:45 a.m., at the church. Interment will follow at Memorial Mountain View Mortuary, 3115 E. Bengal Blvd (7800 So.)
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Nelson
Sponsored by Memorial Mountain View Mortuary, Cemetery - Cottonwood Heights.
Mark Nelson
February 2, 2017
What a beautiful presentation of that hymn, Lord I Would Follow Thee That was Leon's favorite hymn. I think if anyone had a Theme Song for their life, that would be it for Leon. His desire was exactly that, to follow the Savior and I believe he exemplified that. ---
We would like to thank all of you for your support and love. So many are here with us today. It's a wonderful honor to our brother Leon. ---
It's a privilege for me represent the brothers and sisters of Leon. There are 6 of us: Kay, Raym, Steve, Jimmy, Mark and Janice. ---
It can be said of our brother Leon as it was of our father that when engaged in a conversation with someone we always found it to our advantage to declare up front that we were the brother or sister of Leon. That is the kind of reputation he has. ---
It was our father Robert W. Nelson that rooted our family in the gospel of Jesus Christ. His homelife was often plagued with physical and emotional abuse. Our father Robert W. vowed never to allow that in his family, he made a different choice. He established a fortress of the gospel of Christ into our family foundation and his first son Robert Leon Nelson was a perfect product of that effort. I don't think Leon drew from the atonement very often. He left quite a bit of it for the rest of us to use. His is a very big spirit housed in a small container. ---
When we were young . . .
Growing up we had a very Family Centric Life. If you look through our Family slides you find a small grey house in the very rural community of Butlerville, near the mouth of Big Cottonwood Canyon. These slides tell an idyllic story of our childhood years. Events like all 6 kids lined up in a row, oldest to youngest in cutoffs and swimming suits on the front lawn with the sprinkler going in the background. That was our waterpark. A shot of Leon pulling on the starter cord of the go-cart our Dad had built, our brother Raymond and the family dog in the drivers seat. ---
For major events our mother would take portraits of us in front of the brick chimney on the outside the house as her backdrop for nearly every event. Be it Birthdays, Easter Sunday, Summer picnics. I have an image of Leon standing in front of that Chimney in a new Sunday suit which had an oversized extra long jacket on to cover his full torso cast that was in place after his spinal fusion to correct his scoliosis, a curvature of the spine. Carole, has the same spinal fusion as does my wife Wendy. When the 3 of them would get together it created a very exclusive club which I had no interest in becoming a member of. But Leon would tell us the latest procedures that he had just done in an effort to help us learn from them. ---
At 19 Leon was called on a mission to Chile, back then it was a 2 1/2 year commitment. It was a long ways away and a Christmas and Mother's day phone conversation was limited to about 3 min. of intense yelling into the phone just to be able to hear each other and very brief how are you due to the excessive cost of a phone call. ---
Honestly I don't think he needed the phone in order to hear us. It was that loud. Generally our communication was through letters.
The Expensive Air Mail letters that were written on thin onion skin paper, probably cost in excess of 8 cents or more to send. So we had to be judicious about what we wrote. ---
One year we had sent a Christmas package to him. Our parents had written him prior to the package arriving informing him that it included some new clothes including a new tie and had described the tie in detail, as often the package would be lost or not delivered. When Leon went to the Chilean post office to pick up the package there stood the mail official wearing the exact described tie. I believe Leon wished him a merry Christmas walked out with whatever remained in the package. ---
From that time on I remember we had to conceal the items we were sending to him in different ways. Once we cut out the inside of a book in the shape of an electric shaver we were sending him. My 8 year old brain thought our family was involved in some type of international espionage and that we had to carefully mind our actions and answers for the next few years. ---
His marriage to Carole was a storybook wedding. Even though I was young I remember it being a page out of a Disney movie. I think the black and white photos are still amazing to look at. ---
Leon finished college in Utah and after a few years he had an opportunity to work for the IRS as an auditor in Las Vegas. He would tell us the most interesting stories of auditing the books of casinos in the 1960's. Can you imagine a more dangerous job than that! Auditing the books of casinos in the 1960's? What is the life expectancy of one of those guys? I think Carole recognized the risk much sooner than he did and it wasn't long before they accepted a job with the Church auditing department moving them back to Sandy, Utah. ---
His Church occupation took him to far reaches of the world where his personality and kindness was influential. Wendy and I had the opportunity to pickup our daughter from her mission in the Philippines. While having dinner with her mission president and his wife the conversation turned to the President's occupation which happened to be an accountant, one who was employed by the church for many years. I mentioned to him that I have a brother who works for the church accounting department traveling the world. He asked my brother's name and wouldn't you know he was well acquainted with Leon and described to me his stature and characteristics to a tee. I thought is there any place this guy's influence hasn't reached? ---
There is the story of when Carole's mother Helen was living with them just prior to her passing. Carole's father, J. Thomas Fyans, was an early pioneer of growing the church in South America. Those early church authorities were a close knit group of which Thomas Monson was a part. President Monson has a habit of keeping track of those pioneers of the early days. One day they received a knock on the door to find President Monson there wanting to visit with Helen. ---
In his unassuming way he made himself comfortable in their living room while they prepared Helen for the visit. It didn't take him but a minute to discover the piano where he helped himself to an opportunity to play a little number on it. Then he stopped, (and I hope I'm telling this right), but he said to Carole. You have a comfortable home. I feel the spirit in this room. And I think it was then that Carole told him that her husband Leon was the Stake Patriarch and this is the room in which he had delivered hundreds of Patriarchal Blessings. That is a great compliment to the way in which Leon approached the responsibility. With great preparation, prayer and fasting. It takes someone who is willing to raise his personal bar of living worthy to carry that assignment and Leon was able to do that. ---
I always looked forward to visiting with Leon.
You never felt fearful about meeting with him, although some who may have visited with him to do their tax returns may have felt some anxiety as he prepared their returns, but he could always make you feel better about it by joking with you or chiding you about your thorough and efficient method of record keeping in a shoe box, thus helping to ease your pain. ---
When I met with him he was always one who could make you smile. You enjoyed your time with him. We would laugh, reminisce, have some fun and always there would be a small component of testimony in the conversation. An assurance of the gospel, an expression of gratitude for the Savior in his exchange with you. ---
You always walked away uplifted. Leon is a man you can pattern your values and habits after and shape for yourself a remarkable life. ---
His children and grandchildren give him great joy. He can recite to you each one and their successes and challenges. You have no better cheerleader than Leon in your life's efforts. ---
Leon would never commiserate to us about his physical and medical conditions although he had every right to do so. It was difficult to extract any length of detail about it. If you pressed him he could accurately describe it but he would never dwell on it. Instead he would brush it off with a statement like better living through chemistry. You could always enjoy your time with Leon.
He had a meek demeanor about him which afforded him a strength beyond most. ---
To his family: His children, their spouses, grandchildren, future great grandchildren. Leon leaves you a legacy that is established and confirmed and offers a pattern for happiness. If you adopt his values and if you live his example, I promise you that your life will be well lived. Your purpose will be well defined. You will not be free from the challenges of life, as he was not, but you will have a positive method to manage them. A life of positive influence, a happy life, a life well lived as he has had. ---
The Apostle Paul's words were never more accurate for his epitaph. And that is:
I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. ---
We love our brother Leon and hope that we can follow his lead in a life valiantly lived.
Robyn Nelson
January 31, 2017
Being the oldest, I was always expected to know better. I was told over and over, - the others are watching your example. I was even included in punishments for things the others had done. But today, I'm thankful to be the oldest as I was able to spend 50 years with a man that I grew to admire more with each passing one.
Dad put on a brave face, but suffered terribly for many years. The last surgeon who operated on him a few days before his passing shook his head in disbelieve and said this guy has an encyclopedia of problems, how is he still here?
During his extreme pain and suffering, Dad tried to keep a positive outlook by making a joke out of anything he could. Inappropriate or not, we heard everything from - don't eat anything in the fridge, it's for my funeral, to referring to their new car as the widow mobile. Despite these comments, and many others, Dad fought hard, and the day before his passing his goal was to ultimately return home, which he did, just not in the way he was planning.
Even through the very challenging times, Dad remained steadfast in his faith. It was important to him to take the sacrament each week, when able. One Sunday morning after a few difficult and sleepless nights, Mom informed him they were staying home that week to recuperate. Dad was already dressed in his Sunday clothes and didn't respond either way. However, when it was time to leave he announced I'm going to church. Mom responded no you're not, you have no way to get there. Well, he said you could drive me. So off they went to attend the meeting. Mom's needs and well-being were of utmost importance to him, but in this case, his being able to partake of the sacrament outweighed everything.
On Christmas Day the rehab center allowed him to invite two guests for lunch. Mom and I were lucky enough to be able to spend that time with him. Afterwards, there was to be a short sacrament meeting. Before the meeting started, I got up to stretch my legs and walked down to Dad's room. There was a man cleaning, and making sure it was in order. He said to me your Dad is such a nice person, I hope he'll be okay. I thought to myself Dad, you've done your job. During your worst days your gentle spirit and kind heart are shining through.
When I walked back up the hall to the meeting, I could hear the blessing on the bread so I waited in the hallway for the sacrament to be completed. As the blessing on the water began, I heard a voice that sounded very familiar. For a minute, I thought - that's my Dad, but it couldn't be as this voice was so strong, so distinct, so clear, and Dad was so weak that he could barely speak without losing his breath. Even the slightest movement completely exhausted him and it would take several minutes to recover. But as the sacrament ended and I walked back into the room, I saw they had wheeled him up to the sacrament area. That voice had indeed been my Dad. When speaking to his Heavenly Father he found strength we had not seen in quite some time.
As we left that day, mom told him he had fought long enough and she would be ok if he were to go. He told us that from time to time he would see people out of the corner of his eye in the room, but when he looked, they would be gone. We felt those who had preceded were present and giving him a sense of peace. He was being called home.
He will always be remembered as a loving father, a fantastic husband and a wonderful grandpa; his quiet wisdom will be greatly missed, but we take comfort in the fact that he is now pain free. Thank you, Dad, for the example you gave and the legacy you left.
Dad (Alaska)
Nelson Family
January 30, 2017
Dad
Nelson Family
January 30, 2017
Shannon Parris
January 30, 2017
Love you guys so much!!
My heart and prayers are with your family!
This is such a great picture of your dad!
Norma Janko
January 30, 2017
He was so ready with prayer and comfort at the death of my Mom in October.
Always mentioned me in prayer.
True testament of how to live.
Marie Barnhurst
January 30, 2017
We have loved him for all the years we have known him.
A wonderful example of endurance that we all must remember.
Linda Hart
January 30, 2017
Love him!
He is missed by so many, I'm sure he touched more lives than anyone can imagine.
Connie Jewkes
January 30, 2017
Sending my love your family! I will never forget your dad helping us get our car fixed in Las Vegas when we were traveling to L.A.---Thanks for sharing the obituary.
Jonah Johnson
January 25, 2017
My grandpa always inspired me to do good.
I will carry on his goals by making people feel good about themselves.
Jon Nelson
January 25, 2017
People see me and my son (Jake) together and ask HIM where he gets his height, just the way people would see me and my dad together and ask ME where I got MY height. My dad stood 5'7 and weighed-in somewhere around 110 lbs...and with all of that said MY DAD WAS THE BIGGEST MAN I HAVE EVER MET. He lived his life with unwavering faith, with humor, with his priorities 100% in order, I was honored to be taught by this giant of a man. He taught me how to live a good meaningful life, to love family, he showed me a perfect example of how a husband treats his wife, how a father treats his kids, to accept and love everyone as they are. This great man has made my life easier to live and I can only hope that I can pattern my life after his.
He did not seek power and prestige in this world. He did not command attention in a crowded room, in fact usually left a crowded room to go work on his computer or watch a game. I discovered that if you went and found him after he had snuck off from the gathering that you would have some of the most meaningful conversations of your life. He made everyone that he met feel special. He took the time to listen, not only to listen but to truly care what you were saying. It is humbling to hear and read that he treated everyone he got to know with the same love and kindness.
Mexico trip over Conference weekend
Burgundy Caddy but the radio was not working
He set up an 80's style Ghetto Blaster in backseat to listen to the speakers
2 MP3 players, one with FM tuner
Half way point was St George
Telling border patrol we went for drugs (when it was asthma medicine)
We were able to talk without interruption
One of my favorite trips of all time
In the pre-existence he definitely signed up for his share of health trials that he would endure in this life and he bore them all with unwavering faith. This will come as a surprise to most of you but he used to be deceitful to the people that asked how he was feeling. He would always give them a little smile and say "I'm fine". Then he would generally try to change the subject. Everyone learned in order to get the truth about my dads condition they would need to call the teller of all truths,,,, Carole.
In true Leon style he would add his humor to his health problems. If it was telling us to keep leftovers from a large dinner for his funeral, telling the grandkids he would need more of his special tic-tacs before he tries a backflip on the trampoline, or sharing his whit with every medical professional in Utah. He would brighten someone's day with his own special brand of humor.
I'm positive that my dad is in attendance today. And for the first time in years he is not standing up in the back or pacing in the foyer. He is sitting comfortably,,,,but absolutely not comfortable with all of focus on him today.
So I will help my dad enjoy the service a little more today by taking the final minute of my talk to focus on someone other than him. You can't talk about my dads life without talking about my mom. These two were inseparable. She loved my dad through every single up and down that life threw at them.
I've watched her take on every one of my dads health problems as if they were her own.
I've watch her drive him to every doctors appointment.
I've watched the pain in her eyes when my dad was in pain.
I've watched her try to pull off my dads compression socks.
I've watch their eyes light up when they see each other after every one of his procedures.
I've watched them smooch kisses to each other after EVERY single meal prayer from across the table. And if one of them would forget about the smooch the other one would sit there with the smooch face until reciprocated.
I've watched them split a kids meal and take home the leftovers.
I've watched a perfect example of what an eternal marriage should be.
And one day I'm going to truly enjoy watching them together again living in perfect health and happiness.
I love you dad, I will miss you, until me meet again.
Cami Nelson Johnson
January 24, 2017
My dad was a great man. He was an inspiration to those who knew him. When I think of all the lives he touched, it is simply amazing. One thing that really stood out to me in the past few days is how many different people consider my dad to be one of the most important people in their lives. He lived in such a way that he changed lives. He lived with honor and integrity and that was how he was with all of his relationships.
Even though he was small in stature, he had the strength where most of us would weaken. He had the endurance and dedication that could win marathons and he had infinite love and compassion that it could encompass the earth. He was always steadfast in his faith and dedicated to his family and loyal and loving to his beautiful wife. He was the best example of a loving father and a husband.
My parents met when they were kids, they were in the same Butler ward and went to the same school. It wasn't until after a nudge from his mom that he asked Carole out. They dated the summer during my dad's first year in college. They shared a bond over both having had back surgeries at a young age and they also shared the same birthday.
After that summer, my mom went with her family to Uruguay when her dad was called as a mission president, and my Dad went on his mission to Chile. My mom sent my dad a Dear John letter while he was on his mission. Missions back then were 2 years so she had plenty of time to rethink her decision. So when his mission ended and he got off the plane at the airport, there was Carole waiting for him with his mom. And as they say, the rest is history. They married on December 10th, 1964, during winter break. They honeymooned in Arizona and when driving back my mom got really carsick. My dad would pull over to the side of the road, left her out and drive ahead while she was being sick, then he would reverse the car and come back and pick her up. It's probably a good thing that it was my dad who had the health challenges instead of my mom otherwise this relationship may have been doomed from the start.
My dad was the rock of our family. He loved my mom with all his heart. He was a provider, a protector and his love was unconditional and endless. We knew we were loved, but more importantly he set the best example of showing us how much he loved our sweet mom. He always treated her with the utmost respect and love. Growing up I would remember my Dad coming home from work, first thing he'd do is find my mom and give her a kiss. He'd then change out of his work clothes and spend time with his kids while my mom prepared dinner.
Sitting around the dinner table after the prayer and the kiss. My Dad would always be the first to thank my mom for the meal but then in turn my mom would thank my dad for working so hard that we had food to eat. This was their relationship - always putting the other first. They were a solid unit of love and support. Their marriage has had an impact on my life and I'm guessing the lives of many others. Never once did I hear him raise his voice or say any negative comments to her or about her. He needed nothing more that his family to make him happy.
My dad loved the Lord. This never changed even with his countless health issues. He never complained about his problems, he never questioned Why me and he never got mad and blamed the Lord. Years ago he had a severe allergic reaction from taking an Advil. He later explained it was like someone was covering his mouth and nose at the same time while an elephant sat on his chest. He remembers sitting in the hospital and saying he was going. At that time my mom didn't know what he meant and where he was going. He remembers leaving his body and standing with someone. He doesn't remember who it was, but he knew he had a choice to make. To stay or to go. He saw my mom standing there crying and knew he couldn't leave her. Because of this experience, he came to a great understanding about our Savior when he was in the Garden of Gethsemane and truly understood the meaning and power of the atonement. I truly believe in that brief amount of time, he knew if he chose to stay that his path would not be easy, that it would be filled with many challenges but he chose to stay with my mom. That's the greatest love story I've ever known. He had such a strong desire to provide and care for her that he couldn't let go. I believe he would have endured many more years just to be with her. His spirit did not ever give up, but his body had been through enough. His mission was fulfilled; He truly lived a Christ like life.
We were recently looking through a scrapbook of photos of him. To see him in pictures with my mom, with us kids and the grandkids is to see a man who needs nothing else in this world. We were so blessed to have him as our father and grandfather.
To try to end on a happy note, my dad had the best sense of humor. His goal was to make my mom laugh at least once a day. We are going to truly miss all of his made up and very entertaining stories, his dance moves during Christmas parties, his pranks on Halloween and his silly texts we'd receive after visiting him in St. George. We'd always get a text 5 minutes after we'd left asking if we made it home yet. I'm truly blessed to be his daughter, I'm happy he is finally out of pain and he has made it home.
Missy Nelson Burton
January 24, 2017
My dad was a selfless man. He gave us kids the only thing we wanted, and that was his time. When Julie and I were young we would beg and beg our parents to take us to the park. I'm sure we were a little annoying, but I remember my dad taking us countless times to parks all over Sandy and Draper. And he would push us on the swings and run around with us.
My dad also was the one who taught me how to drive. He came home from work one night and tossed me the keys and told me to take him for a drive. I drove him around for over an hour that night, on the freeway and back home all the while chatting me with me about life. It meant a lot to me. I think this is where I learned that I could talk to my dad about things going on in life and I could always count on a wise and fair response. But my dad never told me what he thought I should do. He would start by listening, then asking me questions on what I would want to accomplish or what I would expect and I would always end up finding a perfect solution.
One thing I will always associate with my dad is his honor of the Priesthood. He gave each of us a Father's Blessing every year before school. This was a powerful message to me about how much he cared for us and trusted in our heavenly father to teach and watch over us when he wasn't with us.
When I was divorced, Morgan and I lived with my parents for 2 years. During this time is when I learned the most about my dad. To put it mildly, Morgan was a difficult baby who cried non-stop. But my dad was nothing but patient and loving to her. A story that my mom and I like to tell is when Morgan would be fussy my dad would put on classical music on his stereo and stand it front of her and wave his arms pretending to lead the choir or the musicians. This would entrance Morgan, where she would watch him with such wonder and amazement that she would forget about crying and she would end up falling asleep, which was something she didn't do easily.
When Morgan got older she wanted to drive the battery powered Barbie Jeep but wasn't big enough to reach the pedal. Grandpa grabbed the broom handle and would push the pedal down with the handle and follow behind the Jeep for hours up and down the back yard as Morgan bossed him around. Morgan also remembers that (while playing Barbie's) she would always give grandpa the ugly Barbie and he would never complain. That's what a good grandpa he was.
If I had to choose one word to describe my dad it would be humble. He was a humble servant of Jesus Christ, every day until the very last day that he lived. My husband John and I and two of our kids were able to spend Christmas weekend with my parents this year. On Christmas Eve we all met in my dad's room at the rehab facility to celebrate the holiday. John read the story of Jesus birth from Luke 2 and even though my dad was in pain and so tired that he could barely keep his eyes open, he took a few moments to bear his testimony to his grandkids on the Savior Jesus Christ and the true meaning of Christmas.
I want to read a part of my dad's testimony that he had written down when he was the Bishop. I found it last weekend in a scrapbook at my parent's house. In it he says:
Yes I believe in Jesus Christ, but more. I look to Him, I trust Him, and I strive to emulate His attributes because there has not been, nor will there ever be another name given nor any other way, nor means whereby salvation can come unto the children of men, only in and through the name of Jesus Christ, the Lord Omnipotent.
He goes on to say: I have not seen our Father in Heaven, or His son Jesus Christ. I have not seen or handled the gold plates. I have not seen angels or had revelations. Nevertheless, I believe in Jesus Christ and His church.
A most precious blessing available to every member of the church is a testimony of the divinity of Jesus Christ and His church. A testimony is one of the few possessions we may take with us when we leave this life.
And I truly believe that my dad took with him, as he left this life, his unyielding testimony of our Savior Jesus Christ; whom I am grateful for and have a testimony of. I'm also grateful for the atonement and it's power to bind families for eternity.
Julie Nelson Rowe
January 24, 2017
It is humbling to see how many people loved my dad and how many lives he touched. Thank you for all of your prayers and the outpouring of love. We have felt it and have been touched by the many messages and phone calls. We have enjoyed reading the comments on social media and how many lives this humble man affected. He always carried with him a quiet strength and was filled with such goodness. We are all better people for knowing him.
Missy and I are quite a bit younger than Robyn, Cami, and Jon. My mom always said that her and my dad raised two sets of kids. Thankfully for me, that meant that my parents made all their mistakes on the three older kids. For me, my dad taught me everything through his example. He never preached to me or told me what to do. I appreciated that he allowed me to make my own choices or mistakes and to learn from them.
There are so many qualities that I love and appreciate about my dad. I want to touch on a few.
My dad was a hard worker. He would go to work and then come home and work some around the house. He was never good at sitting still. He would be washing the cars, working in the yard, at meetings at the church, or playing with Missy and me. I don't really remember him sitting and watching TV. If he was watching sports, he was walking on the treadmill or listening to a game on the radio while working in the garage or yard. I loved on days it would snow he would wake up early and snow blow the driveway so my mom wouldn't have to. I know that I got my work ethic from him.
I appreciated his love for the gospel and his steadfast testimony. He always carried the spirit with him and I know that's why so many people enjoyed being around him and my mom. He has a very calming and peaceful presence about him with a quiet strength. He never wavered in his faith. Even when I don't know how he didn't.
My dad had a kind and gentle heart. I don't remember him ever saying anything bad about anyone or being mean to anyone. He was filled with such goodness. I do remember one time that I disrespected him. It was when I was in this ward and I was probably around 13 or 14 and there were a whole bunch of kids the same age. We would get together every night in the summer and play night games, like capture the flag. Apparently we were a little too rowdy at night so Bishop Sorenson set a curfew for what felt like 7:00 pm. Of course, there were a few of us that did not obey the Bishop and stayed out later. I quietly snuck into our house and my dad sternly told me that I was not allowed to stay out past the curfew again. I remember saying in some attitude, Okay dad, what are you going to do if I don't? I clearly remember him not saying a word but just looking at me and then quietly walking away. I remember that moment because he didn't lose his cool, didn't yell, didn't stoop down to my level
My dad was funny and silly. When I was little before his health affected him, I remember him dancing around the house, lying on the floor playing his air piano, and just being free. It would make me laugh and I loved seeing him like this. I clearly remember saying to him, if only your friends and people in our ward saw how you really were they wouldn't believe it.
My favorite thing about my dad is the way he loved and treated my mom. I never saw him yell at my mom, lose his temper, or fight with her. Don't worry, there was plenty of eye rolling from both of them and loud sighs. I know that the way he treated my mom affected our entire house. It trickled down to us and in return we were never yelled at and never fought with each other. We never had contention in our home. We always felt safe and loved. I am grateful for this because I know the close relationships I have with my sisters and brother are a result of the way we were loved. I absolutely love my sisters and brother and cherish the relationships we have with each other. I very much enjoyed spending time with them on Sunday and Monday when it was just us and my mom all in one house. I felt like we were in our own bubble and we got to grieve and heal together. He loved my mom fiercely. It is because of this love that he stayed on earth as long as he did. The thought of leaving her here was enough for him to fight as hard as he could for as long as he could so that she would not have to suffer. It wasn't until his body finally gave up the fight that he had to leave.
Over the years I remember some moments that I witnessed where he suffered so greatly that they are heart wrenching to think about. However, I am grateful that the last few weeks of his life while he was in the hospital, I got to give him a hug and kiss, hear him say the words he was happy I was there, see him wink at me a few times, and hear he loves me as the last thing he said to me.
My dad traveled all over the world for his work. When I was young we lived in Mexico for the summer while my dad worked there. Even though I was young I remember a lot of details. My dad went beforehand and was there before we all came. I know that he got the house we were to be living in all prepared and in order and then came back to get us. I remember arriving late at night in our new home and there was a note from my dad on my bed, saying he had missed me and was happy that I was there now and he loved me. I couldn't help but think of that this week. I feel that my dad has left us for now but he is preparing for our arrival, misses us, and loves us.
Dad, I know that I am a better person because of you and your example. I will try every day to be a little bit more like you. Thank you for being you and for showing us the way.
I'm grateful for this gospel for the knowledge I have, and the peace it brings into my life.
Jessie Johnson
January 24, 2017
My Grandpa is the best man I know.
He was, and still is, one of my favorite people ever.
Throughout my entire life he has, without fail, always been there for me. He always knew just what to say to cheer me up or make me laugh.
One time I was driving home alone from St. George after spending our family vacation with him and my Grandma. On the way back my car broke down in basically the middle of nowhere. I called my Mom who was still with them. I was freaking out because I had no idea what to do. As my Mom was calling a tow truck, I received a text from Grandpa. I opened it up and it said - don't worry we're okay. I couldn't stop laughing. Just with that small message I felt like everything was going to be okay.
My Grandpa has always been there for me during times when I've needed comfort. Anytime I was nervous about a job or school, he would always give me a blessing and those moments were the few times I felt absolute peace in my life.
A few months ago I was really struggling with a new job I had just started. Again I received a text from him. It said - it's okay to not know what you're doing or what you want. I always struggled when I started new jobs. I still don't know what I'm doing to this day, but don't tell anyone. After reading that I felt at ease, and I knew I'd figure everything out.
He has always been my peace in life. He is someone who I aspire to be like. Someone who did not hesitate to do anything not only for his family but, for whoever. Someone who was kind and made people feel better just by knowing him. I hope I can follow his example in my own life.
Jake Nelson
January 24, 2017
Over the years grandpa and I became very good friends. One summer I was looking for a job that worked around my baseball schedule. I eventually found myself working at G&G enterprises. This company, also known as 'Grandma and Grandpa' enterprises, named by Grandpa.
I was paid to do all of their yard work, but there were other perks to the job. There was always a post yard work nap followed by a large home-made meal from Grandma.
The best benefit was getting to know my Grandpa. While working for him, I learned that he could be pretty stubborn. There was one day when Grandpa had just gotten out of the hospital (which wasn't out of the norm for him). He had an oxygen tank because he was having trouble breathing. Grandma had given him strict orders to not get out of bed. I went outside to mow and grandma left to go to Peterson's to pick up some groceries. As I'm mowing I saw something out of the corner of my eye, it's grandpa on his way to pick his raspberries dragging his oxygen tank behind him. As we made eye contact he picked up the pace to try and avoid me. Eventually it took me and a neighbor to get grandpa back in the house.
I appreciate the time I spent with him and couldn't have asked for a better grandpa.
Family - June 2013
Nelson Family
January 20, 2017
Mom & Dad - June 2015
Nelson Family
January 20, 2017
Grandkids - June 2015
Nelson Family
January 20, 2017
Kelly Richards Kunz
January 20, 2017
He was a great man!
Thinking of your family at this difficult time
Heather Harward
January 20, 2017
I was so sad to hear this news yesterday! Thinking of you and your family!
He was such a funny guy, glad he's not in pain anymore, but still so heartbreaking for your family! Love you guys!
Pat Streiff
January 20, 2017
Loved that man!
Joanne Needs
January 20, 2017
Love him!
Annette Swenson
January 20, 2017
We are sad to lose him.
He was our great home teacher.
Polly Jensen Bringhurst
January 20, 2017
This makes me so sad. He was a wonderful man. Love to you all ❤
Alexandra Ryan Anderson
January 20, 2017
I am so sorry for your loss....everyone's loss. He is such a great man and he touched my life so much all through growing up....and he was so compassionate and kind with my brother.
My heart breaks for you all.
Sending love and prayers.
Natalie Ryan Lund
January 20, 2017
I am so sorry to hear this.
I have such great memories of your dad.
My prayers are with your family
Brooke Vance
January 20, 2017
I'm way super sad!!! He was an amazing man! I'm so sorry to hear that he passed.
I will miss him dearly!
Travis Jacobson
January 20, 2017
Godspeed to your family.
He was a kind, sincere man.
Cindi Nelson
January 20, 2017
Such a good and kind man.
He will be missed.
Michelle Buehner McRae
January 20, 2017
One of the most incredible men I have known! Love and prayers for your sweet family!
Susan Ward
January 20, 2017
Sending my condolences.
Your dad is my hero
Joshua Anderson
January 19, 2017
I'm sorry for your loss.
He was good man and I feel privileged to have known him.
Morgan Hatch
January 19, 2017
When I think of my Grandpa Nelson, the first word that comes to my mind is faithful. Grandpa always had unyielding faith in the Lord, no matter what trial or struggle he was facing. I love you Grandpa, and I hope one day to have as much faith as you.
Pam Jenkins
January 18, 2017
An amazing man!
We are so sorry for your loss! It was a shock to hear of his passing even though we knew of his valiant fight against so many health issues.
Much love to your family and their example to us!
We will never forget Robert Leon Nelson!
Morgan Nelson Foshée
January 18, 2017
We love Uncle Leon and your whole family!
Our thoughts are with you guys.
Mary Lindsay
January 18, 2017
You are in my thoughts and prayers coming your way. I loved my time with Carole & Leon, and he always had a smile and joke for me.
Lisa Vogt Leibrand
January 18, 2017
We are so sad to see this. We enjoyed your dad so much during baseball, while he watched Jake with such pride! Our love and prayers are with your family during this difficult time.
Carrie Roylance Carson
January 18, 2017
I'm so sad to hear this news.
He was such a tender, kind and Christ like person.
I'm thankful I was able to know him.
Much love to you all!
Marne Blair
January 18, 2017
We are so sorry for your loss.
We are honored to call him our uncle.
Leigh Noble
January 18, 2017
Thank you, Patriarch Nelson for your example and the way you lived your life.
I think of him often, as I am forever grateful that he gave me my patriarchal blessing.
Sorry for your loss:(
Steve Nelson
January 18, 2017
He will be missed.
He had a wit and personality unsurpassed and a humble spirituality not often appreciated. Truly he trod the path of the Savior's suffering and pain. He overcame this world to inherit the worlds beyond.
We love you Leon. Thank you for being a wonderful older brother.
NiCole Crosgrove Batten
January 18, 2017
So sorry...I'm glad to know that he is pain-free once again. He, and Carole, were amazing to my mom and us growing up.
I have favorite memories of him. One was when he dressed up as a scarecrow on Halloween and sat in a chair by your front door. The way he scared my brother when he went over there to trick or treat was awesome. Love him and will miss him.
Julie Loutensock
January 18, 2017
My prayers are with you all.
I loved him like my own dad. He was there for me many many times over the years.
God bless.
Marcie Peck
January 18, 2017
I am so sad to hear of his passing.
He was my home teacher and my bishop.
What a blessing and example for me.
He was the best of the best!
Shawna Wade Manning
January 18, 2017
Sorry for your family's loss.
Such a sweet man.
Glad to hear he is pain free. Sending prayers of comfort.
Stephen Chapman
January 18, 2017
He was and is a great man.
I was so privileged to know him and work with him in the bishopric.
Love the guy.
Linda Hatt Hart
January 18, 2017
He, along with Carole, are cherished friends! My heartaches for your loss.
Much love to your family.
Amberlee Anderson Brewer
January 18, 2017
I am deeply and sincerely sorry for your loss. He was such a wonderful man.
We will keep you close in our thoughts and prayers. He will be missed greatly and remembered often.
Sending love.
Tim Calton
January 18, 2017
Sorry to hear about his passing. He was a great man, and influenced many for good.
The world is a better place because of him.
Roberto Romero
January 18, 2017
My heartfelt condolences to Roberto's wonderful family.
As I stated before he was, and will be eternally a great human being.
Emily Budge
January 18, 2017
His love was felt by all around him!
We send that love back to your family.
Ben Noble
January 18, 2017
I have never met a person I respected and looked up to more than Leon Nelson.
I am who I am at my core because of him.
Rebecca Wright
January 18, 2017
I am so sorry to hear this news.
What a good and kind man.
Please accept my family's condolences.
Bonnie Steele
January 18, 2017
We will be forever grateful for our Bishop Nelson!
His love and inspiration lives on in the Steele's hearts and home!
Lance Gamero
January 18, 2017
I've known him my entire life. What a great man! Off to another mission. I'm so sorry for your loss!
Annie Shields
January 18, 2017
A man who gave great service! It has been a great honor to have known him, his wife and family!
Christina Jenkins Nice
January 18, 2017
I'm so sorry for your loss, he was a great man and will he missed
Patrick Casaday
January 18, 2017
Truly one of my greatest heroes. I have so many wonderful memories of Bishop / Patriarch Nelson.
Sharon Tillmann
January 18, 2017
We were so sad to hear of Leon's passing. He will truly be missed. He was the best.
Our love goes out to your family
Lisa Hermansen
January 18, 2017
I am so sorry to hear about your dad. My prayers are with you and your family. Even though it is been years since I saw your parents they will always have a special place in my heart. Love you guys.
John Tenney
January 18, 2017
A good friend whom I will miss. Prayers to your family and may you find peace at this difficult time.
Lois Passey
January 18, 2017
Our dear friend Robert Leon will brighten heaven and be a leader among our beautiful family and friends there! I am very sad! I love you Carole and your dear family! Prayers and peaceful memories are my wish for you! I am so sorry!!
Christmas 2016
Nelson Family
January 18, 2017
Nelson Family
January 18, 2017
Nelson Family
January 18, 2017
Nelson Family
January 18, 2017
All Together - Feb 2016
Nelson Family
January 18, 2017
Scott Parris
January 18, 2017
Sorry about your dad. I still remember home teaching your parents with my dad when he was bishop.
You always remember the good ones you meet in life.
Sarah Dixon Rueckert
January 18, 2017
This post took my breath away.
I truly am so very sad to hear this news. I loved spending time at the Nelson home growing up and fondly remember your dad's quiet but very funny personality.
Hope the coming days will be peaceful and comforting for your family.
Alysha Abbott Paulsen
January 18, 2017
What a tremendous loss. My heart hurts for your family. Many prayers coming your way.
Connie Jewkes
January 18, 2017
Oh Missy Nelson Burton, Carole Nelson and family. My heart is aching for you right now. May you feel our Father's love and have peace in your heart at this time!
Julie & Dad
January 18, 2017
Jeninne Park
January 18, 2017
Randy and I just love Carole & Leon. We are so very sorry about Leon's passing. Randy and I had a walk down memory lane this morning after we heard the news. Thank you for sharing your parents with us. We loved sitting on their front lawn and visiting with all of you. We spent countless hours on their couch eating trail mix and many other yummy things, and talking and talking and talking. What a great couple with such a wonderful family.
Cecil Chang
January 18, 2017
Thank you Bishop Nelson for your very kind, loving, caring, great example you are to our family. You helped make our experience living in the neighborhood worth the move from Hawaii. Yes, you will be missed by many whose lives you have touched.
Our prayers for Sister Nelson and your family.
Khando Chazotsang
January 18, 2017
Leon you will not be forgotten.
Our prayers and condolences to Carole and all the families.
Heidi Wells Gunnell
January 18, 2017
His picture brings a smile to my face.
I have so much love and respect for your dad and family.
Sending my love and condolences.
Marinda Hilbert
January 18, 2017
What a great man, dad and uncle.
Love you guys.
Jake Jenkins
January 18, 2017
I loved your Dad. Other than my Dad, he was the greatest person I have ever known. To serve with him was a blessing in my life. His adversities and challenges were second to none, yet he never complained, always had a sharp sense of humor and when asked how he was feeling would always say "Just Fine".
I am sorry for your loss but am so happy to see this wonderful man free of pain and suffering.
Emily Scott Rasi-Koskinen
January 18, 2017
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Your dad blessed my life so much.
Chris Hanson Kelley
January 18, 2017
When my dear husband passed away suddenly, your kind and generous dad offered to do my taxes free of charge. I had the opportunity to get to know him and even in the depths of grief, he could bring much wisdom and peace to my soul. He did so much for others behind the scenes, without fanfare of any type. He truly did light the world!! He always checked with me and asked how I was doing, even when tears overflowed my eyes. He did what the Savior would do, and my husband knew of the heartfelt care he showed me in the hardest of times. Many beyond the veil will thank him for that, and I will never forget, and try to pay forward, what he did to help me.
He will be deeply missed. Please give your mom my love!!!!
Jeri Heaps
January 18, 2017
What a wonderful man with a wonderful family
<3 hugs and prayers to you all
Emily Calton Peterson
January 18, 2017
What a great man!
Thinking of you and your family!
Kelly Nelson McNeil
January 18, 2017
I'm so very sorry to hear this!
What a joyous reunion he is having on the other side, I'm sure of it!
Sending lots of prayers for comfort to you and your family during this time. Love you all <3
Allie Walter
January 18, 2017
So sorry to hear of your loss.
He was such a wonderful man!
Sending prayers your way.
Genet Mitchell Carlson
January 18, 2017
So sorry to hear of his passing and so blessed to have reconnected with you this summer. Even though I was little when we were neighbors, I remember loving him and your whole family.
Sending prayers for comfort and peace at this difficult time.
Renee Cazier
January 18, 2017
Dear Nelson Family,
Steve and I send our love and care at this time. Leon was a savior for our family. His service as our Bishop through some very difficult times continues to bless our lives each day. He will be missed, but we know that he will continue to minister to all he loved here on earth until we can gather together again.
Carole, we send our prayers to you and your children.
Steve and Renee Cazier.
Carolyn Hunton
January 18, 2017
Nelson Family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I have fond memories of your father when we were neighbors.
My heartfelt sympathies to you.
Colleen Davis
January 18, 2017
Ted and I send our love at this time. We pray that your family will be blessed with peace and comfort and feel the Savior's love.
We have special memories and admiration for Bishop Nelson and his wonderful family.
Hugs
Sally Hinck
January 18, 2017
I'm so sorry to hear of the passing of this amazing man.
Your family is in our prayers.
Scott Nelson
January 18, 2017
Very sorry to hear about the passing of Uncle Leon. It doesn't seem very long ago that my Dad and I visited them when they were getting settled in St. George. We helped hang some pictures, set up TVs and electronics. We had a nice visit with them.
He was a great man who honored the Nelson name and touched many people.
Your family will be in our prayers.
Holly Richards
January 18, 2017
Have always loved my association with this amazing, insightful, humerous, man. He will be missed.
I never missed his emails he sends each week.
Kim Parris
January 18, 2017
Words can't describe this dear man who lived his life with exactness. Leon lived his life in the most excellent way he could. I know he has gone on to prepare a mansion for Carole and his family and will open it up, just as he did his earthly home, for all of us. Gracious is another word that describes this fine man.
It was a privilege to call him friend.
Mary Beth Sheppard
January 18, 2017
We were so sorry to hear of Leon's passing. He was such a great example of strength, courage, and service in the midst of adversity.
We will miss him dearly!
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Cris Bartran Silkman
January 18, 2017
Prayers going out to the Nelson family.
Leon was such an amazing man.
Peggy Pedersen
January 18, 2017
Sorry for your loss.
He was a good man and a good friend.
Prayers are with you and your family.
Julie Askerlund
January 18, 2017
Leon was a great example of love and kindness to everyone.
Thinking of you at this time.
Pat Dixon
January 18, 2017
We are so sorry to hear about Leon's passing. He was truly a man who lived and loved the gospel.
Our thoughts are with you Carole at this time, and your family.
John and Pat Dixon
Kaye Meriwether Cundick
January 18, 2017
Love this Great Man so much !! He was an amazing example of courage, hope and love!! He loved his Savior and those around him.
We will miss him, such a great friend and light to all:)
Gregg Sheppard
January 18, 2017
R. Leon Nelson was without any doubt one of the greatest men the Lord has ever put into my life. The Savior has been very kind and gracious in always providing me with great "ensigns" to watch, listen, and learn.
I will miss him dearly, but the joy that I feel knowing he is released from so many aches and pains, probably many we never knew about because of his disposition to not complain. Godspeed Bishop!!!
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