Keith Nielson, age 95, died July 23, 2013 at his home in Lynndyl surrounded by his children. Keith was born September 12, 1917, in Leamington, Utah to Fred and Mary Muir Steedman Nielson. He was born in John Anderson’s store and weighed a whopping 12 pounds on the hardtack candy scales. He grew up in Leamington. He served as a Sergeant in the US Army during World War II and fought in several major battles including Omaha Beach at Normandy Beachhead; Ardennes (Battle of the Bulge); Rhineland and Central Europe. He was a recipient of the Bronze Arrowhead for the Normandy Beachhead landing, and five Bronze Stars for other major battles. After returning home he met Ruby Camille Rosquist at a dance in Moroni, Utah. They enjoyed dancing throughout their lives. They were married on December 31, 1946 in Fountain Green. Their marriage was later solemnized in the Manti Temple on June 8, 1961. She died June 24, 2010. They lived in Magna for 3 years while Keith worked for Kennecott but his passion was farming so he came home and farmed the rest of his life in Leamington and Lynndyl.
He served as mayor of Lynndyl, president of Central Utah Irrigation Company and Leamington Irrigation Company, served in two Bishoprics as well as other church callings and was a faithful home teacher for many years.
He is survived by his children: Kay Stowell (Roger); Sheila Park; Doug Nielson (Jodi); Sheryl Wilson (Scott); daughter-in-law: Sandra Nielson; 16 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren; brother: Max Nielson (Christine); sister: Rae Travato. He was preceded in death by his loving wife: Camille; son: Wendell Keith; son-in-law: Mike Park; brother: Bevan; sisters: Helen and Gwen.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, July 27, 2013 at 11:00 am at the Leamington LDS Church. Viewings will be held Friday, July 26, 7-8 pm, at the Nickle Mortuary in Delta; and Saturday morning, 9:30-10:40 am. Burial will be in Lynndyl Cemetery.