John Gary Nielsen

After a long battle with cancer, Gary Nielsen passed away peacefully at home, with his loving wife Pia of 48 years at his side. His faith in God provided him much strength and peace. He knew that he was going to a better place to reunite with his loved ones. John Gary Nielsen was a resident of Vancouver, WA for 36 years. He was born in Spring City, Utah, on August 24, 1930. He was the youngest son of Linden and Thora Nielsen. He was a graduate of West High School in Salt Lake City, Utah. Gary served his country during the Korean War in the US Army infantry. He continued his military service in the National Guard and the US Air Force. While he was stationed in Europe, he met his wife, Pia Belotti, and they were married on May 12, 1961 in Dudelange, Luxembourg. Ten years later, on May 14, 1971, they were sealed for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake City LDS Temple. After graduating from the University of Utah in 1973, Gary received employment with the Bonneville Power Administration in Plant Accounting where he worked until his retirement in November 1990. Gary was a devoted and dedicated member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was a compassionate person and loved to serve others. Gary enjoyed golfing and fishing for halibut in Alaska. He was also a member of the Association of Government Accountants, Toastmasters International, and the Fort Vancouver Lions Club. Gary is survived by his wife Pia, his two daughters who he adored, Shirley (Lee), and Stacey (Chris); seven grandchildren (the pride of his life), Melissa (Paul), Jeremy, Sidney, Tyler, McKell, Brooke, and Ryan; one great-granddaughter, Avalon; his aunt Madge Jenson and cousin LaRue Steiner. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, and one son. The family wishes to express thanks to the many friends, neighbors, and to the Kaiser Hospice nurses and social worker for all the kindness given during these challenging times. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Monday, October 5, 2009, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 13600 SE McGillivray Blvd., in Vancouver, WA. It will be followed by a graveside service at Willamette National Cemetery, 11800 SE Mount Scott Blvd., in Portland, OR where Gary will be buried with full military honors. Evergreen Memorial Gardens has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements. The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Kaiser Permanente Hospice Care Program, 2701 NW ss Vaughn Street, Suite 140, Portland, OR 97210-5398. Please feel free to sign the Guest Book at www.columbian.com/obituaries.

John Gary Nielsen

August 24, 1930 - September 24, 2009