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Adair Funeral Homes & El Encanto Memorial Crematory - Avalon Chapel

8090 North Northern Avenue

Oro Valley, Arizona

Joseph Nilson Obituary

Joseph Terry Nilson "Big Joe" danced into our hearts on May 12, 1981 and with a heavy heart we share that he was taken from us July 24, 2015. He will be missed most by his wife, Amanda and their children, Gabriel, 9 and Nicholas, 7. From birth Joseph captured, with his ever present smile and charm, the hearts of his father, Terry (Sonia) Nilson; mother, Caroline (Monty) Montelongo; siblings, James Nilson, Beth Schattilly, Kim (Jerry) DeSantis, Eve (Todd) Miros, Taralea Nilson, and Seth (Cristi) Nilson. Joseph attended Flowing Wells Schools through high school and graduated in 1999. During his high school years, Joe earned three Varsity letters for football, led his team to a conference championship and consecutive state playoff appearances. What most people don't know is Joe was an accomplished dancer who loved the spotlight. His "Patrick Swayze" good looks and charming smile were always a magnet to those who knew him. People always knew when Joe showed up because his presence was bigger than life and center stage. Joe continued his football career at Pima Community College where he helped anchor a defense that allowed his team to finish fifth in the nation and win Pima's only bowl game appearance. Joseph always wanted to help others, and in 2007, found his professional calling when he joined the Tucson Fire Department. Joe went on to become a paramedic, saving lives and on occasion, bringing lives into the world. He was honored as a hero by T.F.D. for physically lifting an SUV off of a victim, who would not have survived otherwise. Joseph will be missed by so many family members and the Tucson Fire Department. Come join us in celebrating his life, Saturday, August 1, 2015 at 3:00 p.m. Service will be held at Victory Worship Center near Ruthrauff and I-10. Arrangements by ADAIR FUNERAL HOMES, AVALON CHAPEL (742-7901).

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Arizona Daily Star on Jul. 29, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Nilson

Not sure what to say?





Anthony Richardson

July 23, 2023

I met Joe through his sister Eve at the bar always keep telling him he was a big guy how do you get so big how do you get so big he laughed and smiled and said it's natural I laughed from then you became friends I used to see him every weekend at the bar he was the bouncer there he was such an awesome dude everybody loves him especially me Joe you one of a kind I love you my friend God bless rest in peace until we meet again your friend Tony.

DJ

July 28, 2016

I miss you brother, everyday.

Isaac Martinez

January 13, 2016

Hey Brotha I don't really know what to say, but I want you to know that my Twin and I have always Respected you and know the feeling is mutual, thank you for always having mine and my brothers back, you are a light of God and have a big heart I wish I could tell you to your face ... But Thanks for being a friend to all those you loved and knew God BLESS YOU Brotha. Keep dancing with them Angels and continue to protect those who need it. My condolences to your family and loved ones I know your boys are bright and strong like their Daddy . God BLESS YOU All.

danielle montano

September 11, 2015

R.I.P. Joe, not a day goes by that I don't think of you. You were such a wonderful dad, and a wonderful husband, and a wonderful brother in law. Where ever you were, you brought laughter and joy into people's lives. You are a hero !!! Your nickname you gave me as a child stuck with me all these years and I will always keep the nickname "bango" with me forever in my heart. Rest in peace and fly high with the angels Joe. You will always be remembered. I love you.

kathleen ball

August 25, 2015

Rip Joseph I really haven't got to see you since we were little kids except for when you tackled dude on the show Cops...lol. I was like oh my gosh he is grown up. Then your dad and my uncle their genuine love for their boys morals and im sure some mistakes helped mold such respectful men. Ill hope to be as lucky as your wife was to of had u. There arent to mant of u real men and dads anymore. Sorry nilson family.i love u guys through years n missed encounters your always in my memories and laughs. Rip buddy

Terry Felix

August 2, 2015

Amanda im so sorry for your loss. Just remember you are not alone .. i cant take your pain away I cant bring back what you lost but I can always listen and I can always give you a heartfilled hug...

Rex & Sandra Patten

August 1, 2015

God Bless all of the family and Joe was the very best and we will miss him.

Krystal Rodriguez (Work)

July 31, 2015

Wish I could be there to share my condolences. Your in my thoughts and prayers. God bless your family.

Cathy Hoffman

July 31, 2015

I did not know at his young man but I know members of his family. I am so sorry for your loss and my prayers are with you all.

Deb Andrews

July 30, 2015

Very sorry for your loss. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.

David Bowerman

July 30, 2015

It was truly memorable to meet and work with Joe during his probationary year as a Tucson Fire Paramedic at Firehouse 4. I'll never forget his Drew Carey shtick at the Chili Cook-Off. May you Rest in Peace, Brother Joe.

Lisa Farren

July 30, 2015

Strength and prayers for Joseph's family. Such a wonderful young man with a great personality. Thank you God for letting me meet him. Take care of him Lord.

-Lisa Farren

Jodi Maki

July 30, 2015

Our hearts are heavy that this wonderful young man is gone too soon.
Our condolences to the Nilson Family.
Darin and Jodi Maki

Julia and Jacob Richardson

July 30, 2015

Rest in peace Joe. You will be greatly missed. You were always the life of the party singing karaoke at the c-note. Lots of hugs and words of encouragement to Amanda and the boys.

Donna Warren

July 30, 2015

I remember Joe working for his dad at C Note Always had a smile and took care of business. How sad and tragic that he has left us so soon May he rest in peace and May God Bless his family and help heal the hurt they feel

Stephanie Brodie

July 29, 2015

Sending love and prayers

Lupe and Joel Surratt

July 29, 2015

Sending love and prayers from many of your VA "family" who know that this loss of such a special person will require strength and support from those who care for all of the Nilson Family.

Anne Hall

July 29, 2015

Dear Amanda and family, I will be praying for you. Joe was a great guy and I know I don't have to tell you that. I love that nephew of mine and I love you and the boys. Thank you for sharing your life with him, if you ever need anything let me know. Love, Auntie Anna Marie

anthony Richardson

July 29, 2015

Rest in peace Joe you will be missed . You are in gods house now.

July 29, 2015

Dearest Amanda... please close your eyes and feel the huge and warm hug both Dennis and I are sending you and your family... Dennis and Ida McCarty

July 29, 2015

Joe was a wonderful man. & will be remembered by all that ever met him.......God bless his beautiful soul & his loving family. R.I.P. JOE

Laurie Mertens

July 29, 2015

The loss of Joe to our family brings grief beyond measure, and my heart breaks for Amanda, Gabe, and Nick. Our family, his firefighter family, and their multitude of friends will see them through this with so much love and support, it would make Joe proud. His larger than life persona will be sorely missed by ALL who knew him. Love you, Amanda, and your Aunt Laurie's shoulder is all yours. I'll see you Saturday, sweet girl.

July 29, 2015

my prayers for Carolyn and Monte also Joseph's wife Amanda and children Gabril and Nicholas

Travis Reyes

July 29, 2015

Joe personality was bigger than life I loved working out with him,was always funny,positive,prayers & condolence to his family,wife,& kids.

Bradley Crane

July 29, 2015

Joe was always so much fun to be around. Friendly and interested in whatever we talked about. I will miss his laugh. You are a good man Joe. Thanks for having me with great memories.

Alexis Ball

July 29, 2015

All my love, prayers and condolences to the entire family. Joe will be greatly missed!

Leah Sanchez

July 29, 2015

No one prepares for a loss like this. My thoughts are with his family. Anyone that had the honor of knowing Joe was very lucky. His smile lit up the room and his humor was out of this world hilarious. He will always be in our memories and forever in our hearts. Just know without a doubt he will be watching over his beautiful wife and kids.

Rob (Redneck ) Reynolds

July 29, 2015

R.I.P. Joe, We will miss you! Thank for always having my back, it was a true pleasure to work by your side. Keep your eye on those pearly gates,someone has to keep things safe,and your the best man for the job!!
Love ya Big guy, Redneck

Anonymous

July 29, 2015

May this candlelight guide Joe's wife and children through life without a husband and father. I give blessings and comfort to you and all of his family.

July 29, 2015

My prayers and consolences go to Joe's family and multitude of friends. May the comfort of his love be with you -Carrie

Nicky Anspach

July 29, 2015

my heart goes out to the family in prayer and love.

Nicky Anspach

July 29, 2015

I met Joe many years ago on the job. He always brought a smile to my face and made me laugh. He will be greatly missed. God bless his boys and may they always know what a wonderful man their father was.

July 29, 2015

God Bless you Joe! I had the privildge of knowing you in High School. You were and still are a wonderful person. Go dance with the Angels in heaven Big Joe.
Blaine Asher

Gary and Rebecca Berry

July 29, 2015

Prayers for the family

Debbie Jackson

July 29, 2015

Prayers and strength go out to your family, from mine.

Carmen Mendoza

July 29, 2015

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Mary Clegg

July 29, 2015

Your Family is in our thoughts and prayers. We are so sorry for the loss of "Big Joe". Please know our love and support will always be here for your Family.

Love,
Mary,Dad,Mom,Dawn,Kenny,Brenda,Rick, Chase and Cole.

Showing 1 - 37 of 37 results

Make a Donation
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Memorial Events
for Joseph Nilson

Aug

1

Celebration of Life

3:00 p.m.

Victory Worship Center

near Ruthrauff and I-10, AZ

Funeral services provided by:

Adair Funeral Homes & El Encanto Memorial Crematory - Avalon Chapel

8090 North Northern Avenue, Oro Valley, AZ 85704

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