Michael David Nielson
April 8, 1980•October 14, 2026
Mike Nielson, 46, passed away at home, surrounded by his family, on October 14, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with a rare salivary gland cancer.
Mike was a natural adventurer who loved sports, the outdoors, and, most of all, the friendships he made along the way. Whether he was playing sports, exploring the neighborhood, or finding adventure in his own backyard, Mike loved being with people and making memories together. Growing up, he spent countless hours playing in the trees of Bellevue and exploring the ravine behind his house. He loved playing basketball at church, playing football, running, and riding his bike to Lake Washington. During his senior year of high school, he was named Athlete of the Year for cross country.
At Utah State University, Mike found the perfect combination of his love for running, his passion for learning, and the friendships that meant so much to him. While double majoring in economics and finance and competing in cross country, he built friendships and made memories that became an important part of his college experience. He was as passionate about the people alongside him as he was about the competition.
Mike made his mark as an Aggie athlete, setting the school record in the outdoor 5,000 meters at the 2005 Oregon Invitational, as well as records in the 10,000 meters and the 1,500 meters. He was the first cross country runner to earn USU’s Athlete of the Week honor. In 2003, Mike led Utah State in each of the four races he competed in. Among his many athletic accomplishments, he also took first place in the men’s division of the Ironman in Lake Havasu.
Beyond athletics, Mike loved his friends, serving the people of Brazil, and earning his MBA from the University of Utah.
Mike worked at Zions and American Express, where the friendships he built were just as important to him as the work itself. He loved to banter, joke, and laugh with his coworkers, turning everyday interactions into meaningful connections. He enjoyed his work, but above all, he loved the people he worked with. For Mike, the best part of any job was the relationships he built and the laughter he shared along the way.
Mike and Lindsey met while running the Ragnar relay. They quickly realized they were soulmates. They were best friends who did everything together and shared a love of adventure, laughter, and life. Mike loved having fun with Lindsey, especially playing basketball, golfing, fishing and doing nothing together.
Mike’s favorite thing in the world was being a dad to Fin, Oakley, and Quin Marley. He loved catching snakes and lizards with the kids, teaching them to ski, going camping, and taking them on adventures. He loved watching them play sports and was always their biggest fan. Of all the things they did, the simple things were Mikes favorite, early morning bike rides to get a donut, bb gun shooting, or wrestling in the front room.
Mike loved Jesus and was inspired to be kind, live freely, and accept people as they were, without judgment. He had a way of making everyone feel welcome and valued, and he gave people the benefit of the doubt. He loved people for who they were and never felt the need to take himself too seriously.
He was the best crepe maker and had a special love for his minivan, often declaring, “Minivan baby—oh, I love that minivan.”
A finance lover with a playful spirit, Mike loved to joke and hated being serious. He loved Bob Marley, the outdoors, and any opportunity to challenge himself. He was happiest outside, whether he was running before sunrise, skiing in the mountains, golfing with friends, or watching Aggie basketball with friends and family.
Mike loved waking up before the sun to get his morning run in. He loved being in the mountains and finding new adventures. On the golf course, he was known for being a little sneaky, never taking the game—or himself—too seriously. He was always looking for a way to have fun, make someone laugh, or throw a snake on an unsuspecting friend.
Mike had a quick wit and a gift for bringing laughter wherever he went. More than anything, though, he was kind. He made people feel comfortable, accepted, and loved. His family and friends will remember his infectious laugh, his fun-loving personality, and the joy he found in the people around him.
Mike loved life, loved his family, and loved making memories with them. He lived with an open heart, a playful spirit, and a deep appreciation for the people and adventures that made life meaningful.
Go Seahawks!
Mike is survived by the love of his life and wife of 16 years, Lindsey Arnoldus Nielson, and their three children, Fin, Oakley, and Quin Marley; his mother, Sally Nielson; his siblings, Eric (Angela) Nielson, Christy (Michael) Van Orman, Mark Nielson, and Adam Nielson; his parents-in-law, Sharon and Greg Arnoldus; his siblings-in-law, Tonya (Ken) Richardson and Keith Arnoldus; his best friend, Russ (Ali) Jessop; and many extended family members and friends who loved him dearly. Mike has been reunited with his father, David Nielson, who preceded him in death.
The family would like to thank the many friends, family members, neighbors, nurses, doctors, and caregivers who supported Mike and his family throughout his illness. Their kindness, compassion, and love have meant more than words can express.
Services
For close family and friends:
Mike will be laid to rest on October 27, 2026 at 10:00 a.m., located at Larkin Sunset Gardens Cemetery, 1950 E Dimple Dell Rd, Sandy, Utah 84092.
All friends and family are invited to celebrate Mike’s amazing life on October 27, 2026 at Le Jardin, 1910 E Dimple Dell Rd, Sandy, Utah 84092.
Open House: 5:00–8:00 p.m.
Open Mic: 5:30–6:30 p.m.
Please come share your favorite stories, fun memories, and moments about Mike.
Refreshments will be served.
A livestream link and recording will be available for those who are unable to attend in person, click “watch services” to view.
Attire: Please wear whatever feels comfortable. Favorite sports team attire, jeans, and other casual clothing are welcome.
In Lieu of Flowers
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Mike and Lindsey Nielson family through their GoFundMe. Your support and kindness are deeply appreciated.