Shirley Irene Marker Nielsen, passed away Monday, January 31, 2022. She was born May 6, 1929, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Gerald and Irene Hope Marker.
She married George Wallace Nielsen on July 1, 1949, in the Salt Lake Temple.
Shirley attended South High School where she met “Wally Nielsen.” He soon became the love of her life. He brought joy and laughter to her. She waited for him to serve his country in the US Navy and then his Father in Heaven during a three-year mission to New Zealand. Through her husband, Shirley became an avid BYU football fan. She also enjoyed U of U athletics and the Utah Jazz. Shirley was active in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. She loved her Heavenly Father and had great and solid faith in Him. She held many callings in her life, but she loved none more than that of being a wife and mother. She had an extraordinary love for her husband of 73 years and for her five children. That love later expanded for her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. Shirley was proud that Wally and her posterity included 136 souls, all of whom loved her right back. And all of whom knew that they were Grandma’s favorite.
Shirley was a gifted seamstress and was extraordinarily creative and crafty. She played the violin beautifully. She worked in the Jordan River Temple for many years. She loved having family parties with lots of food and games, especially Rook.
After 31 years, we know she is happy to be reunited with her eternal sweetheart.
A special thank you to Tammy, Rachelle, and Candisse for their many hours of service and kindness to Shirley.
Survived by four children, Sue Heugly (Mark), Leslie Reynolds (Lance), Robyn Smith (Ryan), and Wally Nielsen (Jill), and 136 grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, sisters Connie Eckersley, Marlene Bailey, and Joan Floto.
Preceded in death by her husband Wally Nielsen, her daughter Rhonda Lane Nielsen, grandson Taylor Smith, and her parents Gerald and Irene Hope Marker.
Shirley will be greatly missed by all who really knew and loved her.
A small family service will be held at Larkin Sunset Gardens on Saturday, February 5, 2022, at 2:00 pm, 10600 South 1700 East, Sandy, Utah.
Friends and family may call on February 5, 2022, from 1:00-1:45 at Larkin Sunset Gardens prior to the service.
Interment will be at Larkin Sunset Gardens following the funeral.
Recording of the services can be found above on the "Watch Services" button.
Such a beautiful woman with a beautiful soul. May you all feel comfort and love at this time. We will for sure be watching the services I’m praying for your family. Love you
Sorry to hear of the passing of Sister Nielsen. We used to part of the Midvalley when Pres. Nielsen served as the stake president. Sister Nielsen was such a gracious women and a great example of following Jesus Christ. We loved them both and felt fortunate to serve with them. I am sure they are so happy to be together again. May you feel peace at this time.
Dear Sue and all of your wonderful family,
We were so sorry to hear of your dear mother's passing. She is a beautiful angel who will be dearly missed by all who loved her so much.
Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during this tender time.
Love you, Jay and Jan
I'd like to extend my sincere condolences to the entire Nielsen family. She was Gram Irene to me and to many. Lovely lady. May God bless her and keep her close to his heart. R.I.P Dear Shirley 🙏❤