A live broadcast of the service will be available at https://zoom.us/j/99982014665?pwd=Agf9bYLr1XO9nhbVVTWBvmBX2PZZYc.1

Anthony Robert Nelson graduated from this mortal life on August 2, 2024. He went peacefully, surrounded by his loving family.

Anthony was born August 28, 1998, in Boise, Idaho, to Matt and Rochelle (Gardner) Nelson. He spent his childhood collecting Hot Wheels cars, digging in any kind of dirt he could find, writing deep thoughts, drawing, and charming everyone who crossed his path. One of his favorite things to do was to get donuts and then go swimming with his dad and brothers on Saturdays.

He moved with his family to Lehi, Utah, just before he turned 10.

Anthony loved the outdoors, so moving to a state with so many places to explore was perfect for him! He went on lots of hiking adventures with his mom. She'd stop and take pictures; he'd go on ahead and find a tree or rock to climb while he waited for her to catch up.

Anthony absolutely loved cars and could tell you the year and model of any car on the street. He loved working on cars with his father, and his Grandpa Randy, and enjoyed spending time with his great-grandpa admiring his antique car collection. He passed this love of cars onto his nephews, both of whom he spoiled with gifts of matchbox cars at random times.

He enjoyed spending time with his brothers, but he had a special connection with his little sister, Taylor. They spent hours together, laughing, sharing meaningful conversations as well as bad puns and inside jokes, and creating art.

Family was everything to Anthony. He greatly loved and appreciated his grandparents and great-grandparents. He would call them frequently to check up on them, share news, and express his gratitude and love for them.

To know Anthony was to love Anthony and to be loved by Anthony. He was a fiercely loyal and devoted friend. He hosted many movie nights, game nights, pumpkin carving nights, etc. It was impossible to feel unwelcome when Anthony was around.

Throughout his life, Anthony battled mental and physical illnesses. Armed with an incredible wit and a ready smile, his sense of humor and hopeful outlook remained constant. Even in his last hours, he was cracking jokes with the doctors and nurses. He made a point of asking each of their names and made sure to thank them for taking such good care of him.

Despite the setbacks caused by his physical illnesses, Anthony persevered and graduated from Utah Valley University with a Bachelor's of Science degree in English and a certificate in Editing and Document Design. Days before his passing, Anthony excitedly shared the news that he had received and accepted a job offer as a technical writer.

In 2019, Anthony's medical issues took a drastic turn for the worse. Thanks to a miracle surgery, his life was extended for five more years. The family would like to thank P.A. Aaron Elswood; Dr. Casey Owens; Dr. Ziga Cizman; Dr. Alan Langnas; and many other doctors, nurses, and medical personnel who gave us those extra years.

Anthony was preceded in death by his grandfather, Ronald Blake Gardner; his uncle, Lucius Gardner; his cousin, Ava Nelson; and great-grandparents, Floyd and Eunice Babbitt, Ronald and Mary Nelson, Gail and Jean Taylor, and bonus great-grandma, LaDean Taylor. He is survived by his parents, Matt and Rochelle; siblings, Michael, Ryan (Kayli), and Taylor; nephews, Anakin, and Olivander; grandparents, Joyce and Randy Edie, Robert and Bonnie Nelson, and Seria Gardner; great-grandparents, Ronald and Arlene Gardner; and many uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends who loved and adored him.

To honor Anthony's memory, a service will be held at 600 South 500 West Lehi, UT, on Thursday, August 8 at 11:00 am. A viewing will be held at the same location on Wednesday, August 7 from 6-8pm, and then again one hour prior to the funeral service. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to your local school's art program.