James Russell Nielson

Russell Nielson
Monroe, Utah

Our beloved father, grandfather and cherished friend, James Russell “Russ” Nielson passed from this life on March 2, 2021 in Orem Utah, in the arms of his children. He was born March 18, 1930 to Madge and Waid Nielson in Richfield Utah. He graduated from Richfield High School in 1948. A lifelong sports enthusiast, he played football, basketball and was a state champion tennis player.

He enrolled in LDS Business School, but when it became clear that his country would need him, he enlisted in the army. He served during the  Korean War, stationed in the Quarter Master Corp in Germany.

Upon his discharge he returned to Richfield. He met and married his eternal sweetheart Sue Hansen on November 14, 1953. They relocated to Salt Lake County, settling in Sandy, Utah. Their family grew with the arrival of daughter, Connie and son, Shawn. The family moved to Monroe in the 70's. He retired early.from his job as a telephone lineman, then his life passion began. He became a substitute teacher at South Sevier High and Middle Schools, all the students he taught have a special place in their hearts for "Mr. Nielson." He also did play by play announcing and for 35+ years was known as the Voice of The South Sevier Rams.

He was an active and faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served in many callings Throughout his life and served with Sue as temple workers at the Manti, Utah Temple.

He has been an amazing father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend to all. He served in the Lions Club, American Legion and the Sons of Utah Pioneers.

His hearty greetings, genuine interest in everyone he met, his hugs and handshakes, and fun times at Pioneer Day in Monroe, will be sorely missed.

He is survived by his children: Connie (Russell) Sorensen and Shawn (Ann Marie) Nielson; 6 grandchildren and their spouses; 20 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren. He was proceeded in death by his parents, siblings, and dear wife.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, March 6, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. in the Monroe Stake Center, 140 South Main. Friends may call Friday evening from 6-7 p.m. at the Magleby Mortuary in Richfield or Saturday morning at the stake center in Monroe from 9:30 -10:30 a.m. Burial will be in the Monroe City Cemetery with military honors by the Sevier Valley American Legion Post #37 and the Utah Honor Guard.  Live streaming of the services can be found at www.maglebymortuary.com under Russ' obituary. Due to COVID-19, all attendees must wear a mask and adhere to social distancing guidelines. Funeral Directors: Magleby Mortuary, Richfield, Salina and Manti. Online guestbook at www.maglebymortuary.com

Until we meet again!