Grant S Nielson

Grant S. Nielson passed away on April 5, 2025, in Delta, Utah after 97 years and 8 weeks of a productive and satisfying life. He was born on February 16, 1928 in Lynndyl, Utah to Shelby F. and Violet L. Nelson Nielson. He married Agnes ‘Louise’ Skidmore in the Manti LDS Temple on August 18, 1950. They raised 6 children in Leamington and Delta. After 66 years of marriage Louise passed away on October 8, 2016.

Dad grew up during tough economic times on a family farm, south of Lynndyl (Sunny Brook), Utah; and, after his parents lost the farm, in a general store in Leamington, Utah. He was actively engaged in farming and livestock from the late 1930s until the early 2000s when he retired from ranching and sold the Steptoe Ranch. He was a successful cattleman in Millard, Juab and Utah counties in Utah as well as White Pine County, Nevada.

Although his early years were challenging, he often credited his Mother’s strong mind and will, as well as the guidance and support of his uncles: Ed Coltharp, Ken, Wells, Fred, Spence, and Jerry Nielson. His sister, Virginia, was a strong defender (second only to Violet) in these early years and one of his best friends throughout life.

Dad had one sister; however, when he married Louise, he gained a much larger family of nine Skidmore brothers and sisters in-law. He had great love and respect for the Skidmores and their strong family bonds, their humble beginnings, and life successes.

In addition to beef and alfalfa, Dad also helped the growth and maturation of six children, the Delta Livestock Auction, the Pendray Plaza Motel, and the Great Basin Museum in Delta. After retirement from ranching, he regularly served as a volunteer at the Great Basin Museum.

He served as Mayor of both Leamington and Delta, Utah. While Mayor of Delta he helped the community’s successful growth through the construction of the Intermountain Power Plant (Units 1 & 2). One of the accomplishments he was most proud of, is the Airport Cut Off road (SR 136) to keep coal trucks away from Main Street. He was concerned that the frequent traffic would prove unsafe for pedestrians and harm downtown business.

Dad often quietly shared to improve communities and individuals through helping those in need and through significant contributions to the Spanish Fork Fair Grounds, Great Basin Museum, and scholarships.

The family would like to thank each of his caregivers, who through their patience and loving care allowed Dad to live in his own home for the last several years. Thank you America Polanco, Rosa Fernandez, Dolores, Janitzia, and Ramon Moran.

Grant is survived by sons: Karl (Kathy) of Leamington, Utah; Bryan (Kyle) of Las Vegas, Nevada; Ron of Salt Lake City, Utah; and Dave (Lorna) of Valparaiso, Indiana; and daughter: Christine (Cliff) Wilson of Delta Utah. He was also blessed with foster son, Steve Prochko; 18 grandchildren; and 21 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife: Louise; son: John; grandson: Jeff Nielson; parents; and sister: Virginia Russell.

A Graveside Service will be held on Saturday, April 12, at 1:00 pm, at the Delta City Cemetery, where he will be interred next to his adored Wife and our dear Mom. Dad, please remember that you could have buried Mom in Leamington. Online condolences may be left at www.nicklemortuary.com

In lieu of flowers, please hug your parents, children and grandchildren, visit with them (listen to them) as Dad was so well practiced.