Paul Richard Nelson

Retired US Air Force Major

With heavy hearts, we share that our beloved Father, Brother, Grandfather, and Uncle, Paul Nelson, passed away at age 70 in his home on Friday, September 6th, 2024

Paul was born on January 6th, 1954, in Salt Lake City, Utah. He spent his early years in Des Moines, Iowa, alongside his siblings Denise and Todd Nelson.

Paul and his family moved back to Salt Lake City in 1966. He attended East High School where he met the love of his life, Kathi Barrett. On September 30, 1972, they married at St. Augustine Catholic Church in Honolulu, Hawaii.

In 1974, Paul Joined the Air Force and began a family with Kathi. Paul’s military career took his family all over the United States as well as England and Germany. After serving 26 years, he retired from active duty in 2000 and continued his service as a civilian until 2017.

Paul and Kathi spent 50 loving years of their lives together raising their kids, traveling, skiing, playing tennis and golf.

The nucleus of Paul’s life was his 8 children; Peter, Stacey Young, Natalie Donahue, Breanna, Stephanie, Danielle, Kayla, Courtney and his 8 grandchildren; Jasmyn, McKenna, Saleena, Elise, Aubrey, Ada, Sienna and Lily.

Paul was literally a “helluva guy”! A fiercely loyal and loving family man, wonderful friend, and neighbor. He was always a big presence and lit up every room he walked into. He valued hard work and always kept himself busy, whether it be car mechanics, golf, landscaping, being master of the grill at family gatherings, or making his loved ones laugh. It was both an honor and a privilege to be in his presence. Paul will be forever loved and missed by all who knew him.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents Richard O. and Reta L. Nelson, his granddaughter Jasmyn, his son Peter, and his beloved wife, Kathi.

A private gathering will be held for friends and family. Please share memories and stories on this page.

Tributes to Uncle Paul –

Paul was one of the kindest guys I’ve ever known. Denise, Paul and I had plenty of laughs together and he always left me with a smile.
-Len

I’ve been able to count on my brother Paul for anything and everything for my whole life. His unexpected passing has left a huge hole in my heart. Paul was so creative when it came to gift-giving. It was always a total surprise! Looking around my house and yard, memories of him are everywhere. He had the very best smile and loved to laugh. I will miss him so much.
-Denise

I love how quick-witted Uncle Paul was, and he laughed a lot about himself when he was. I appreciate it that he took over Grandma Reta and Grandpa Dick’s Christmas Party.
-Billy

Uncle Paul was so thoughtful, and he had an amazingly sarcastic sense of humor. I loved when he would get “tickled” at his own remarks/jokes because it reminded me of Grandma Reta.
-Liz

Reminiscing of Uncle Paul, I think of his selflessness and how he would do anything for anyone at the drop of a hat. While wearing a hat.
-Andrew

Hats off to Paul “Kendal Jackson”. Love, and I will miss you.
-Bill

I haven’t seen him in such a long time, though I remember Mom and her brothers always slept outside with all the cousins for the “Great American Sleepover”. And then there was Lagoon every summer when he and his family would visit. He had the best smile and such a great laugh!
-Sarah

He was a kind and giving man. He made sure everyone was accounted for and well loved.
-Jay

He always accepted you regardless of choices or situations. Knowing Paul means you understand how he can spin a tail that would have you questioning the truth or joke in his statement. Regardless, seeing Paul meant your day was brighter.
-Jenni

Uncle Paul always greeted me with a “Hi Sweetheart”. He had a way of making me and everyone he talked to feel seen by actually listening to everything you had to say. He was the most generous person in spirit, and in love. He was truly an anchor for us Nelson’s and is already missed beyond belief.
-Lindsey

Paul was always genuinely interested in what was going on with you. And always happy and delighted to hear everything you had to say.
-Tyson