Cindy Harding

1956 ~ 2022


Cynthia Nielson was born on August 27th, 1956 in American Fork, Utah to Forrest and Marjorie Nielson.

Physicians were unsure, but believe Cindy died suddenly from a blood clot in her lungs December 16, 2022.

Growing up, Cindy kept to herself. She loved to read, enjoyed riding bikes and jumping rope. She often spent time with her dad and brothers by going fishing and playing in the irrigation ditch. One activity she enjoyed doing, and later got paid to do, was picking raspberries-which happen to be one of her favorite fruits. Each time she ate them, she recalled childhood memories of her dad’s garden full of raspberries.

In her early 20’s, Cindy began to work at a law office as a secretary for Ray Harding Sr. She immediately caught Martha Harding’s eye. She wanted to set her up with her son Doug, who was on a mission. Shortly after getting home from his mission, with his mother’s encouragement, Doug went to meet Cindy at the office. Let’s just say he visited his dad’s office a lot more after meeting Cindy. They dated, later became engaged, and married in the Manti temple April 28, 1979. Their marriage journey continued for 43 years.

Cindy was always very nurturing and had a strong love of children. Growing up, she often babysat for friends and her sister Trudy. In time, Cindy and Doug had 3 children of their own. Even after raising 3 children, Cindy helped raise her neighbors’ 3 children, maintaining a special bond to this day with each of them.

A mother’s love is something that no one can explain. It is made of deep devotion and of sacrifice and pain. It is endless and able to endure come what may. Nothing can destroy it or take a mother’s love away.

Cindy lead a life of hard work. She proved this many times in her life. One of those times was by working to pay for her own college education and for Doug’s PA school. She continued to work full time while fulfilling her roles as a wife and mother. There was always something that needed to be done, and she did it with no complaint. In short she was Wonder Woman.

She was a wonderful example of service, giving rides to her fellow church members, picking up and dropping off kids to seminary and school, bringing in meals to those in need, providing a Christmas for those less fortunate, writing a sweet message to help brighten someone’s day, the list could go on and on.

She devoted much of her time to church callings, working with primary children, young women, and relief society, through ward and stake callings. She was always going above and beyond what was required, to make it the best it could be. From her service, she helped many children, youth, and adults have spiritual moments. There was a time when she was an early morning seminary teacher, relief society president, worked full time, and still fulfilled her roles as a wife and mother. It was challenging, but she did it. Again, she was Wonder Woman.

She would make you feel like the most important person in the world, and she did this for everyone, even if she barely knew you. She would welcome you with open arms and treat you as family.

Cindy always loved flowers. The beauty that comes from them always brought her joy. She would spend hours working in her yard and flower gardens. Seeing the beautiful colors during the summer months always brightened her day and made all the hours spent taking care of her flowers worth it.

Cindy’s life was all about family. Although she was far away in distance, she always made sure her kids and grandkids knew of her love for them. She sent packages on holidays, texted messages of love, sent birthday cards, talking on the phone, and even playing games over FaceTime. When grandma came to visit, all the grandkids would cheer with excitement. This meant game playing, reading books, walks, park visits, getting ice cream and so much more. She would do anything for her children and grandchildren.

Cindy enjoyed many things. One of those was cooking. When first married she was not a good cook, and Doug and Cindy did a lot of eating out. But Cindy worked hard to improve her skills in the kitchen and eventually became an excellent cook!

Cindy spent the last 8 years working in the temple every other week. She was very devoted to this calling and always looked forward to her time in the temple. The peace and happiness she felt there were always a source of strength for her.

Loving, kind, selfless, committed, comforting, reliable, and giving. These are just a few words people would use to describe Cindy. If you knew Cindy you were a better person because of her kindness towards you.

In the words of Alex MacLean, “Those we love don’t go away. They walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near. Still loved, still missed and very dear.”

We love you Cindy and will miss you terribly.

Those wishing to view the COMPLETED services via Zoom can click the "Watch Services" button or follow the link: https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/SJ076T-XV8M-aP3IR-OJ5O8_1xS3W_8isDgBqevIe-IHs-2Y-_ZXFdv0ATc5WErf.ImGc_geXzjujz-jR?startTime=1672681222000


Guestbook/Condolences

Sending my deepest sympathy to the Cindy Harding family. I was able to get to know her through work at Northland Health. She was very special to me and we shared many stories of our families. I will always cherish her kindness and so many good qualities. Sending prayers to all to get through this very difficult time. Memories will live on forever.


- Doris Bohl

Sending you all so much love. I will always remember how much Cindy loved us in seminary and hosting youth parties. Love you all.


- Kit Didericksen

To Cindy's family:

I was in YW back in the 80s & Cindy had served in the district YW presidency in Bismarck ND. She was an essential part of the beginning of my testimony. She was an amazing leader and did truly love us. My prayers and love are with you in this difficult time.

Sister Tracy Johnston


- Tracy Snyder Johnston

Cindy was so kind. She has a sweet spirit that made me want to be near her so that I could have that spirit near me. I have thought of her often since she moved away and miss the influence she had in me.


- Karen Gunsch Walter

We send our sincerest condolences. It’s still hard to believe Cindy has passed. She is an amazing woman and wonderful friend. We were so blessed to move to Minnesota at about the same time as the Hardings and become fast friends with Doug and Cindy and their family I can list so many ways that our lives have been impacted and blessed by Cindy. We will miss her and send our love and prayers. We keep you all in the highest regard and pray for heavens comfort through the days ahead. 💕🙏💕


- Rich and Roberta Hansen

Our deepest sympathies and sincerest condolences.
Carson and Sheryl Fleck


- Sheryl Fleck