Robert Oleen Nelson

Our wonderful father, papa, brother, and friend, Robert Oleen Nelson passed away January 26^th, 2023 at his home from a stroke.  Robert was born on January 5, 1946 to Lawrence Oleen and Damsel Nelson. He was the fifth of seven children.  He had just celebrated his 77^th birthday.

Robert or Bob as he was known to his friends, began farming at a young age.  He learned the farming trade from his dad.  He found he had a talent for growing things and became a proficient farmer.  He loved growing up in Bear River City. He and his friends caused a little mischief, but he often looked back on those times with a smile on his face.  Even after moving to Corinne, he always considered Bear River City his home. 

Robert was a big man with an even bigger heart.  His stature, sense of humor, and personality were all larger than life.  He loved people and had a way of making sure they felt his love.  He could talk to anyone about anything.  He never met a stranger, only a friend.  His word was his bond, and his warm, honest handshake sealed many a deal.

Robert attended Bear River High School but found the love of his life at the rival school of Box Elder High School.  After meeting Judy Ann Bradbury, they became high school sweethearts and were married June 29, 1968.  They made their family eternal on April 12, 1977 after being sealed in the Ogden, Utah LDS Temple.

Robert loved his country.  He served in the National Guard from October 1965 until June 1971.  He knew the blessing of living in America and the freedoms enjoyed here.

As Robert and Judy raised crops, they also raised their family. Lisa, Brady, Riley, and Kaydee grew up under his nurturing and loving care.  He encouraged them to work hard and to develop their talents.  They supported their children and encouraged us in church, sports, scholastic, and equestrian events.

He loved the Lord and had a strong and humble testimony of the gospel.  His “Good ole Boy” nature, and kind, friendly way reached many hearts.  He simply served the Lord by serving others.  His callings included Home Teacher, High Councilor, Bishop of the Bear River 2^nd Ward, and Stake Executive Secretary.  He loved the people he served and had an enormous impact on them. 

Robert was a devoted, loving and caring husband.  As Judy’s health failed, he made sure she had the best of care.  He was patient and tender, seeing to her every need.  No sacrifice was too great.  Eventually as she needed professional care, she was placed in Willow Glen Health and Rehab.  In the 8 years she spent there, he visited her everyday.  Judy continued to be the love of his life and he treated her as such.  She passed away on December 10, 2017 and a large chunk of his heart went with her.

The title he most cherished was Papa.  He adored all 10 of his grandchildren.  He delighted in family traditions and making holidays special for them.  He did extraordinary things.  He loved having his good friend drop candy from his airplane at Easter, carving pumpkins at Halloween and Christmas parties were never complete until Santa had come.  One highlight of his life was purchasing an Ogden City trolley and turning it into his “Love Bus.”  He had it custom wrapped with pictures of his grandchildren, added a train horn, and had a special license plate made for it.  He surprised his kids and grandkids on July 24^th 2015, just in time to drive it through the Bear River City parade.  On occasion, he would pick up the grandkids from school or take them out for ice cream in it.  What a Papa he was!

He enjoyed spending time with his family.  He loved taking them on the pontoon boat, cruises, trips to the fish farm, Disneyland, deer hunting, fishing, and planned a special family trip each year to Island Park.  He never forgot to bring Bingo prizes for the grandkids.  Each grandkid strived to wiggle their ears just like Papa.

Robert was a meticulous farmer.  He took pride in his farm, raising onions, wheat and corn.  Each year after the onion harvest, he loved delivering bags of onions to friends.  He didn’t miss a day driving around checking each field. 

He appreciated Dr. Lish, who was also his dear friend.  The family also appreciates Dr. Markeson for his care and compassion he gave our dad. 

Robert was preceded in death by his sweetheart, Judy Nelson; Parents, Oleen and Damsel Nelson; brother, Clyde Nelson, and sisters Audrey Spry, and Peggy Porritt.  He is survived by his children, Lisa Larkin (Lance), Brady Nelson (Lori), Riley Nelson, Kaydee Scott (Steve) and 10 grandchildren Bracken, John, Jaxon, Kaedyn, Carson, MaKaya, Brooklyn, Parker, Austyn, and Easton.  He is also survived by his sisters, Mitzi and Kristy, and brother Neil. 

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, January 31, 2023 at 11 A.M. Viewings will be held on Monday, January 30, 2023 from 5-7 P.M. and prior to the service from 9:30-10:30 A.M. All services will be held at the Bear River City Church (5870 N 4700 W- Bear River City).