William John Nelson Jr.

1930 ~ 2022

Obituary Photo for William John Nelson Jr. < >

William “Bill” Nelson passed away at home surrounded by loved ones on February 27th at the age of 91. He was born in Salt Lake City, Utah April 5, 1930 to William John and Myrtle Batt Nelson. He was a graduate of South High School and proudly served 2 years in the Military before starting his career. Bill worked as a mechanical engineer in drafting and design. He enjoyed being creative in his work, but his creativity carried throughout his life. He was a handyman and jack of all trades.

Bill married his “lovely lady”, Leah Hardman in the Salt Lake Temple, June 7, 1957. They were married for 64 years and enjoyed traveling, singing, and cherished life together with their 5 children; Nola (Fred) Arko, Shauna (Steven) Hill, Kip (Janalee) Nelson, Toni Myaer, and Holly (Mark) Bennett. Bill was a family man and whenever he was working on one of his many projects, one of his kids was by his side helping and learning his skills. These include gardening, car maintenance, cooking, canning, or being a home fixer-upper and the list goes on. His kids and grandkids always knew if something was broken, “It’s okay…Grandpa can fix it”!

Dad was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He had a deep love and testimony, reflected by his service. He held several callings and was always willing to lend a helping hand. Dad enjoyed serving a mission at the Utah State Prison with his wife, Leah, where they were able to share their love of genealogy. Serving in the Jordan River and Draper temple brought him great strength and joy. His later years were spent serving and caring for his sweet wife.

Whether fishing, hunting, camping, or sleeping under the stars, Dad loved the outdoors. The family road trips in the camper were filled with laughter and song and were some of our fondest memories. He greeted each morning with a song and was often heard whistling, humming and singing through the day. Dad taught us each to play the ukulele, sing, and love music as he did. He spent several years singing barbershop with the Beehive Statesmen and loved singing with the ward choir.

Bill was preceded in death by his wife, parents, brother and 2 sisters. He is survived and adored by his children, grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren. He will be greatly missed by all.

A viewing will be held Saturday, March 19th at the Sandy Hillcrest Ward Chapel 915 E. 9045 So. Sandy, Utah at 9:30 a.m. Funeral services will follow at 11:00. Internment will be at the Larkin Sunset Gardens 1950 E. 10600 So. Sandy, Utah.

To view the COMPLETED services via Zoom click the "Watch Services" button or follow the link: https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/gtBnCx9w34UvhcpLSWXQAm8SKE4SvDTQMVUOzYcaqj2HRqso-ZOZgqdr6ry14Hs.T0BdkC2Anjp9XX2k?startTime=1647707799000


Guestbook/Condolences

So sorry to hear about uncle Bill. I was expecting this to happen soon. He will be missed. Live you all and prayers for you to push on and continue with life.


- Vicki Hone

So sorry to hear about uncle Bill. I was expecting this to happen soon. He will be missed. Live you all and prayers for you to push on and continue with life.


- Vicki Hone

Hi, to the five children of Leah & Bill,
I watched Bill's funeral, and it was very nice. So much love in your family. Bill and Leah did a good job of raising all of you. I enjoyed all your talks, and "Daddy's Little Girl" was special. Thanks for letting me know about Bill.

Best wishes and love,
Kathleen


- Kathleen Marshall

Sorry to hear about Uncle Bill. Also sorry I was not able to attend his funeral. Didnt find out about it until yesterday.

Jeff


- Jeff Woodhave