Robert Jason Nixon passed away on September 13, 2022, from a bicycle accident that resulted in a head injury. He was riding at Liberty Park in Salt Lake City, Utah.
He would have told an entertaining story about what happened that night. Rob was a great storyteller and loved to share about his life’s adventures. He often was a hero—but these weren’t the stories he highlighted. Such as the time he remodeled almost every square inch of a cousin’s house in a few days, loaned a car to a friend for an entire year, or the countless times he noticed a need and showed up to support those he loved without being asked. Or brought together people who thought very differently.
Rob was willing to help and had an amazing array of skills that enabled him to do so. He started building and designing things as a kid—a sledding track in the backyard made from snow, skateboard ramps built from scrap wood, vinyl stickers cut by hand. He kept learning new skills over time: car painting, house painting, graphic design, set design, car repair/modification, welding, and electrical work. He made things for work, for fun, and for others. His vehicle always had more tools than are in most people’s houses.
He used and developed these skills in his various professional endeavors: sign design and installation, car painting, music video production, fireplace installation, and home renovation. He also worked in the mortgage industry, customer service, and sales. He was animated about a new business venture he was working on, but he was taken from us before this could come to full fruition.
You’d often hear him telling stories about something “ridiculous” he was making. A vehicle Frankensteined together so that it was no longer a Nissan, Toyota, or a Jeep, but a little bit each. A tent he designed and sewed to be able to camp in the back of his truck. He dreamed it and he made it just how he wanted it. Normal was not good enough for him.
Rob lived his life with passion and energy. He saw things that needed to change and did what he could to make the world a better place. He had ideas and plans and dreams. When he saw problems, he had big ideas on how to fix them and he did what he could. He had big plans for supporting people who were mistreated by society and did what he could to help them now. He was also passionate about defending his family—particularly his mom.
Rob had just begun a new job and was preparing to work remotely in various cities across the country. He was preparing to move on to a new adventure and it looks like he did. Just not the one he had in mind. We miss you, Rob. Make some stories and build us something cool for when we get there.
Rob was born in Provo, Utah on March 20, 1984. He lived in Texas, Utah, California, and Arizona throughout his life. He was married in October 2013, and they later divorced.
Rob is survived by his parents, Dell and Laura Nixon; all his siblings—Ryan (Liz), Scott (Janae), Heather Harmon (Zach), Amy Butler (JJ), Janelle Ricks (James), and Brooke Kay (Ethan); his grandparents, cousins, nieces and nephews; and by many friends who consider him family. Preceded in death by a grandfather, Stephen Stumph, and several dear friends.
Special thanks to Dr. Shervin Rahimpour and the staff at the neurocritical care unit at the University of Utah hospital. Also, a special thanks for the organ donation staff that enabled Rob’s final act of service.
Rob had a passion in life of serving others. In lieu of flowers, the family would kindly ask that donations be made to the provided link (https://gofund.me/4f582162) which will in turn be donated to various organizations to help and serve others in his honor such as blood donation, single mothers, and assisting those experiencing homelessness.
Funeral services for Rob will be held at 11AM on Saturday, September 17, 2022, at Larkin Mortuary - Riverton, 3688 West 12600 South. A viewing and time to gather and share memories will take place prior to the funeral services beginning at 9:30 AM. Interment to follow at the Riverton City Cemetery.
Funeral services will be streamed via Zoom. To watch the previously held services, please click the "Watch Services" link above.
Our condolences for your lost. It’s never easy to lose someone, even though we know the Plan Of Salvation and testify the Gospel is true. Our hearts and prayers are with you and your family. Ofa atu (Love)
This man got me through some of the most difficult times of my youth. I’m eternally grateful to have known him and to have been touched by his kindness. His light will forever live on. Love you, Rob.
Dell, I extend my deepest condolences to you and your family on the loss of your son. I pray our Heavenly Father's blessings upon each of you at the challenging time. God bless you, Dell. God speed, Rob.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. We know that our Heavenly Father is also very much mindful of you and will give you added strength as you turn to Him.
Love Paul and Kathy Crossley
What a blessing to know your family. Our thoughts and especially prayers are with you. God bless the wonderful Nixon family💜 all of you💜
Amazing tribute to an amazing man. The Nixon family is in my thoughts and prayers. We need more Rob's in our communities.
Laura and Dell I am so sad to hear this tragic news. I can only imagine that losing a child would be one of the most difficult of life's challenges. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. When I think of you two I see a husband and wife who are strong and valiant in their testimonies of Christ, a couple who gave their all to raise children that would follow the teachings of the Gospel. And now you are called upon to endure this trial. I know the Lord will bless you as you make the necessary life adjustments and strive to find peach. Let me know if there is anything I can do to help you. All my love to you and your family.
I worked with Rob on many music videos over the years with a handful of clients. Rob was an honest hard working creative guy with intensive drive and passion for what he believed in. I will miss him.
Our deepest condolences and sympathies to all Nixon families especially to Laura & Dell!
We will always treasure our fond memories of Robert and his friendship with our son Nate when they were younger in Texas!
We’re grateful for the friendship we have with you all Nixon family! !! Sending prayers of comfort and love! —-Ruth & Jon
I’m so sorry to hear of Robs passing. What a tragic accident! He is truly at peace in a better place with love ones who have passed before. Even in passing, he has blessed others. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Please accept my deepest condolences.
Dell and Laura,
So sorry for your loss. Praying for a blessing of comforting peace to be with you, your family, and all who knew and loved Rob.
Hi Dell - I just wanted to extend my deepest condolences to you and your family for your loss. Your family is in our prayers.
Rob was there for me at a very difficult time in my life. He would drop everything to help anyone who needed it. He was the life of the party wherever he went … a big personality but also had a very soft caring side.
He will be dearly missed by so many.
-Ashley Downie
Dearest Laura and Family,
I never knew Rob, but after reading that remarkable tribute, I share the joy of a life well lived. I pray the Lord's choicest peace, hope, and joy to fill your thoughts and days ahead, knowing what we know. I pray you will still feel Rob near at times and be assured he is well and happy. I pray for comfort for you which surpasses understanding. How we love you, All. Carry on, sharing the love and kindness that Rob did.
Love,
Jan Marsh
I am so very sorry. Love and prayers to your sweet family. I love you.
It was a pleasure to have met Rob. Even from my short encounter with him, I could tell that he had a good heart, and I was upflifted by his cheerful spirit. We are praying for you and hope you find comfort in your loss. We love your family.
I am sorry for your loss...praying for your strength. I only knew Rob a few weeks through work, but I felt like I had known him much longer than that. He had a great way about him, was willing to help others, and had a contagious sense of humor. He will be missed.
I only worked with Rob for a few days but even in that short time I learned, that he was a unique and considerate man.