Gary “Smurf” Nelson

Gary “Smurf” Nelson passed away April 24th, 2016 at his home in Cottonwood Heights with his daughter by his side. He spent 67 years playing hard, pushing the limits, breaking the rules, and not regretting it for one minute.
Born March 17th, 1949 in Smithfield, UT to Leo Andrew Nelson and Nonavie Belva Stone, he was the youngest of 4 children. He somehow survived his childhood, despite having to walk in the snow, uphill, both ways, with no shoes just to get to school every day (even in the summer).
He graduated from Ogden High School and in 1970 enlisted in the Army. After being honorably discharged and returning home, he spent the remainder of his career working in the civilian sector at Hill Air Force Base, where he retired in 1997.
On his birthday in 1976, he met and later married the love of his life, Sherry Griego. Together they had two children, and although later divorced, they spent the last 15 years living down the street from each other. When asked to explain their relationship to others, he simply, but whole heartedly would say, “She is my best friend.”
He was a member of several clubs, including the Big Horn Club, and the Eagles.  He was proud of his contributions to the March of Dimes, Make a Wish, and MDA. Those who knew Gary will remember him for his sense of humor, (at least he thought he was funny), his willingness to help anyone, and his love for telling (and retelling) stories.  He played some of the most memorable pranks on his co-workers and family and loved to make others laugh. He took up cooking later in life, but unless you had an hour to spare, it was best not to ask, “How do I cook…?” He had a recipe for most everything, but unfortunately for him, he will never live down the infamous kiwi/clam fried rice “incident.”
He is survived by his partner through life Sherry Robison (Nelson), brother Leo “Ralph” Nelson (Sonia), son Gary Nelson, Jr. (Geri), daughter Tammy Nelson, daughter Jenna Nelson, and daughter Aryn Nelson. His 8 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren, who will miss him dearly, also survive him.
His parents, sister Phyllis Nelson, brother Don Nelson, and grandson Andrew Nelson precede him in death.
If you knew Gary, you will understand his wishes have been honored in not having a formal funeral service. He didn’t want “all of you gawking at him” after all.
There will be a private family viewing before cremation later this week.
Graveside services with full military honors will be held at 1pm on Monday, May 2nd 2016 at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Bluffdale, UT. Friends and Family are welcome to join us as we say goodbye to this legend of a man.
Service Information

Graveside Service
May 2, 2016 at 1:00 PM
Utah Veterans Memorial Park, 17111 S. Camp Williams Road, Bluffdale, UT