Thomas Phillip Nelson

Thomas Phillip Nelson fought bravely but lost his battle with cancer on October 6, 2023, he was only 61 years old. Tom was born May 1, 1962, the seventh of nine children born to Robert and Joyce Comstock Nelson.

Tom was married to the love of his life and best friend Elizabeth “Liz” Murphy who, to his great sorrow, passed away on May 22, 2020.
Tom had a passion for cooking, and you never went away from Tom and Liz’s house hungry. His barbeque, Chile Verde, and that pot of clam chowder at Christmas was amazing.

He had a great love for the outdoors – camping, fishing, hunting, bird watching and photography. He was often called upon to be the designated cook and was quick to pull out his Dutch ovens.

He could build or repair almost anything and always had a project. He carried a little red notepad and a pencil in his pocket, making notes about things he wanted to build or repairs that needed to be made. His knowledge of building, electrical, and plumbing was a help to both family and friends.

Tom made friends easily and kept them for a lifetime. Friend or family, he was always ready with a hug, and they were the best. His hugs weren’t just arm around your shoulder hugs; they were both arms around you pulled into his chest bear-hugs.

He joined the Army in 1981 and served during Desert Storm. He was released from service in 1996. He worked most recently at Lowe’s and Home Depot. He also worked at Kraftmaid Cabinets and Stair Fittings in West Jordan. When he was younger, he worked as a cook.

Tom is survived by his daughter Melanie VanMatre (Terry), granddaughters Addie and Dixie Peterson, sisters Peggy Simmons (Robert) and Ginny Record (Paul), brothers Wilford “Al” (Julie), Robert (Paola), and Gerald “Jerry” (Denise). He is also survived by a whole passel of nieces and nephews – both regular and great. Tom is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, and sisters Georgia, Deborah, and Kathryn.

Graveside services will be held at 11:30 am on Saturday, April 13, 2024 at Larkin Sunset Gardens, 1950 East Dimple Dell Road (10600 South), Sandy, UT.

Tom, you may be gone, but will never be forgotten. We will keep your memory alive by laughing, loving, and sharing our stories of you.