Joseph Vernon Nielson

With sadness in our hearts, we announce the passing of our brother, uncle, nephew and good friend, Joseph Vernon Nielson, known to everyone as "Joey." He passed early on the morning of October 20, 2024, at the Intermountain Medical Center with his brother, Flip, at his bedside.

Joey was born in Murray Utah on August 22, 1952, to Joseph F Nielson and Renee Tennant Nielson. He was privileged to carry the names of his father and grandfather. Joey was the firstborn of Joe and Renee, and as such, learned from an early age to be a big brother and watch over and be there for his brothers and sister. He was always there for them throughout his life. He grew up loving little league baseball and playing sports. Joey attended Murray High School where he participated in track and football. Upon graduation, he was offered a football scholarship but opted to remain at home and go to work, initially in brick laying and eventually he made a career as an employee of Regis Paper Company. Joey was elected as a union shop steward and participated in both grievance mediations and contract negotiations, looking out for his fellow employees. He took immense pride in his responsibilities with the union. 

Joey met the love of his life, Alice Thomason, and they married on December 9, 1978. They shared many happy years traveling and spending time on family outings. Alice passed away in July 2019. While Joey missed her, he visited and maintained his relationship with Alice's family. Dogs were also a big part of Joey and Alice’s family.  

Following the loss of his wife and mother, Joey was determined to stay in his home. With the help of family members he was able to accomplish this goal. 

Joey was a good Brother-in-Law and an especially good uncle. Joey is survived by his brother Glen "Flip" (Shelley) Nielson and their children Kate, Sierra (Chris), and their child, Arden; his sister, Brandee (Chuck) Jensen, and their children, Ryan and Raelyn; his niece, Jamie (Pat) and their children, Keagan, Haley and Kasi; nephew John (CherRee), and their children, Kayla, Braden, and Kayden; his Sister-in-Law Debbie niece Katie nephews Jeff, Joe (Becca) and their children, Dawson and Jeren; and Bryson; Alice's Sisters and Brothers-in-law: Debra Thomason, Patricia (John) Scott, and their children, Trica (Kevin) Haworth, and their children Hailey and Clara; Matthew, Scott, Emily (Ryan) Mark and children Grayson and Hunter. He is also survived by his aunt, uncle, numerous cousins, and Godchildren: Lisa, Pamela, Sandra, Chellee and Albert; his boyhood friend of 55 years, Tom Archeletta; and family friends, Chris Hall and Tony Sharp; as well as several on-line buddies who he maintained contact with during his later years. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Renee, grandparents, wife Alice, brother Lyn, sister-in-law Kim, brother Roy, and his brother-in-law John Scott. Their loss was hard on him. 

Celebration of life will be held on Friday, November 8, 2024 from 5-7pm at Memorial Murray Mortuary 5850 South 900 East Murray, UT 84121. In lieu of flowers please donate to Utah Humane Society in Joey's name.