Melvin Gary Nelson
February 6, 1937 - January 2, 2017
Our most beloved brother, dad, gramps, great-gramps and friend suddenly passed away at his home on December 31, 2016. Gary Nelson was born to his loving parents Miles E. and Melba Nelson in St. George, Utah on February 6, 1937.
He spent many wonderful summers as a young boy at the Swapp Ranch in Hatch, Utah with his brother Kent and his great-grandparents Melvin and Mary Jane Swapp. He graduated from Provo High School in 1955. He played on both the football and basketball teams. Throughout the past 60 + years, he and his high school buddies have met monthly for lunch. He served an honorable mission to Norway from 1958-1960, making a lifelong friendship with Dennis Olsen, his son's namesake.
Gary owned his own business, G. Nelson Sales and Brokerage. He was a manufactures representative for many major non-food lines. He had a long professional relationship with Associated Foods, Albertson's and Smith's Food King and was well-respected in the industry.
Gary lived a full life. He enjoyed being surrounded by his family and friends. He loved a good party and cocktail. He was a great cook and grill master. He was Mr. Fix-it and always looking for a project. He spent many summers entertaining family and friends on his boat at Flaming Gorge. He was a great story teller and loved a good joke. He was his grandchildren's #1 fan at their different sport activities. He is described by all as a "great guy."
While serving in the U. S Army Reserves as a hospital assistant in Texas, he met a beautiful woman from Massachusetts. He and Lorraine Ann DePalma married July 14, 1961 and had two children. They later divorced, but remained friends. He is preceded in death by his grandparents, parents and ex-wife as well as many friends who were happy to greet him with a cocktail.
Gary will be greatly missed by his daughter Kellie Ann (Andy) Vander Veur, Dennis Anthony Nelson, grandchildren Tonya (Larry) Laforett, Michael Vander Veur, Sidney Jake Nelson, Stephen Cole Nelson, great-grandchildren Chaz and Kobe Laforett, brothers Kent Nelson and Ray Nelson, his nieces Lori Aikin, Kris Mylanakis and Stacie Strong, his best friend Dallas Farrimond and many, many other lifelong friends.
Friends are invited to celebrate his life on Monday, January 9th from 6:00 – 8:00 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City, UT. Please use complimentary valet parking provided on the north side of the building.
In Loving Memory
Kellie and Andy and family we were shocked to hear about the passing of your dad and grandpa. We pray for God's peace and comfort on your family at this difficult time. We certainly will have you in our thoughts and prayers.All our love to you.
Reinje and Benj Rains
brrains67@yahoo.com, UT
I have known Gary as long as I have Denny . His Father - was one of US . Ten or twenty years apart in age meant nothing . Good guys are good guys . Always a gentleman and a friend . Gary was regular at our boy's lunches . He will be missed and sincere condolences to his family .
Don Swaby
Salt Lake City, UT
Dear Kellie, Andrew, and family members and close friends, Karen and I were saddened to hear the news of the death of your Dad, Grandfather, and Friend. Please accept our sincere condolences and sympathies during this difficult time of transitions. We hope that knowing that your family is loved by so many will bring you comfort and peace as you celebrate the life of Melvin Gary Nelson. Again, we express our love to your families and hope that Heaven blesses you with peace and comfort in the coming days and weeks. Sounds like that there are many wonderful memories and great experiences to look back on and relish with delight. Hugs, Frederik and Karen Gasparac Dissel (Andy's cousin)
Frederik Dissel
COTTONWOOD HEIGHTS, UT
dear Kellie,Denny,Jake,Cole,Michael, Tonya, Chaz, Kobe, Larry ad Andy, I am disappointed that events here in the East have kept me from shaing in Gary's celebration of life this evening .My luggage got there, if only I had packed myself ..alas, not to be. Over the years Gary and I shared many fun memories. I shall miss his upbeat attitude.."that the glass isn't half empty it is refillable! Cheers to you Gary I shall miss you. love Maureen
maureen swn
boston, ma
To Gary's family: I am one of Gary's neighbors in his building, and I was so sad to hear of his passing. He was always willing to help fix things. It was also fun to visit with him . . . generally in the garage. I will miss him. May the Lord bless you and comfort you during this time of grieving.
Loretta Orgill
Midvale, UT