One of Heavenly Father's most noble sons returned home with honor on Sep 16, 2016. Hans Nievaard, Beloved Husband, Father, Grandfather, Brother, Uncle and Friend was born April 3, 1942 in Eindhoven, Holland, to Hendrik and Ali Hubert Nievaard. At the tender age of 8, his family came to America, leaving behind a piece of his heart in Holland. Sharing the Dutch culture with his family was a cherished part of his life and made for wonderful fun memories and family traditions that will live on.
He served as an LDS missionary in his homeland and soon after returning he met his sweetheart, Gerrie, at an Institute dance. Hans and Gerrie were sealed for eternity Dec 16, 1965 in the Salt Lake Temple. They joyously celebrated their 50th Anniversary last December with many family and friends. Throughout the trials of mortality they endured, they found comfort and peace in being together and taking care of one another with tenderness and love. Hans and Gerrie were blessed with 4 daughters. Dad loved his girls. His girls loved him. He is our hero. We are thankful for the sweet reunion that just occurred with his oldest daughter Cindy on the other side of the veil.
Hans graduated from the University of Utah and with dedication, he built a thriving CPA practice where his clients became some of his dearest friends. He spent 49 remarkable years doing what he loved.
Hans had a devout love for his Heavenly Father and his Savior. He eagerly accepted and honored his callings as a counselor in the Elders Quorum Presidency, as a High Priest Group Leader, Assistant Ward Financial Clerk, First Counselor in the Little Cottonwood 16th Ward Bishopric, and as a High Counselor in the Salt Lake Little Cottonwood Stake. His sincere desire was to serve as an ordinance worker in the Salt Lake Temple, which he did faithfully for 3 years.
Traveling the world was a gift he gave his family throughout his life, creating unforgettable memories. From a young age, his daughters gained a true appreciation for the beauty and diverse cultures of so many countries the family explored together. These experiences are some of the sweetest memories that will sustain us in the months and years ahead. Hans loved his family beyond measure and was always willing to come at a moment's notice to be at the side of anyone who needed help. Being known as a man of integrity is his greatest legacy.
He is survived by his sweetheart, Gerrie, three daughters, Lisa, Kathy (Joseph), Marci, 7 grandchildren, Zach, Kenzie, Jeremy, Desiree, Aubrie, Mason and Cameron, his brothers Ed (Marilyn) and Bob (Lucy), as well as his business partners and countless dear friends. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Cindy, and his parents.
Services will be held Saturday September, 24, 2016 at 12:00pm at the Little Cottonwood 16th Ward Chapel at 6350 Rodeo Lane in Salt Lake City. Friends and family may visit on Friday evening, September 23, 2016 from 6-8:00pm at the ward, and from 10:30‚11:30am prior to the service. Interment will follow at Elysian Burial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the LDS Missionary Fund or your favorite charity.
