Alice Eleanor NIELSEN

NIELSEN, Alice Eleanor passed peacefully in her home in Tucson on October 1, 2017 in the presence of her three sons, Walter Jr., Robert (Patricia) and David (Brooke). She was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on January 5, 1920. Alice was preceded in death by her parents, Elmer William Flaccus and Eleanor Flaccus Pascoe; daughters-in-law, Pamela Nielsen and Barbara Nielsen; her precious daughter, Gretchen, who passed in 1964 at age six, and Alice's loving husband, Walter, of 65 years. Alice is survived by her sons, seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Alice loved the world, which she celebrated in the watercolor artwork she created throughout her life. She studied music at the University of Arizona, and was an accomplished classical singer, performing as a contralto in church and community events. While attending the U of A, she met her future husband, Walter, who was a star on the Wildcat football team. They were married in 1942 and built a life together that was exciting, fulfilling and expressed daily by the deep love they had for each other until Walt's death in 2006. They made their homes in Southern California and Nevada until they retired and returned to Tucson in 1978 where they lived for the rest of their lives. Alice and Walt were successful business owners in Las Vegas, manufacturing coinwrappers for banks and casinos. They also owned and operated a cattle ranch located in beautiful Smoky Valley, Nevada. They enjoyed world travel, especially to Mexico and all regions of the United States. They enjoyed the company of many friends and relations in communities throughout the United States wherever their productive and busy lives led them. Alice and Walt were founding members of the Desert Club in Tucson and were enthusiastic supporters of the Tucson Symphony and Opera. They regularly attended U of A sports events and community art productions. In addition to her sons, Alice is survived by her nephew, Bill Flaccus (Carol) of Green Valley, Arizona. Since Walter's death, Alice has resided in her apartment at the Forum where she enjoyed the company of many friends. In later years, she had caregivers organized by Luisa Chacon who provided assistance and companionship that greatly enhanced her life. With the exception of the untimely loss of her daughter, Alice had no regrets and spent her life celebrating her good fortune and bringing joy to the people around her. We all join in saying good-bye to Alice, an enthusiastic life well lived! Arrangements by EVERGREEN MORTUARY.