Carl Nielson, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, teacher, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 28, 2026, at 10:00 p.m., at the age of 84.

Carl was born on November 13, 1941, in Payson, Utah, to Ivan and Phyllis Nielson. He was raised in Springville, Utah, where he developed a lifelong love of learning, the outdoors, and service to others.

On June 7, 1968, Carl married the love of his life, Carol Gourley Nielson. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and service. Carl and Carol often enjoyed pointing out how perfectly their names matched—just as their personalities did. They were true partners in every sense, working side by side through life's joys and challenges.

Carl devoted his professional life to teaching and mentoring young adults as a Director and teacher for the Institute of Religion of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Throughout his career, he served at several colleges, including the University of California Medical Center in San Francisco, Pleasant Hill Institute, San Jose State Institute, and the West Valley College Institute in Saratoga, California. Teaching the gospel and helping others strengthen their faith brought him great joy and purpose.

His commitment to the Lord extended far beyond his career. Carl faithfully served two full-time missions for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: first as a young missionary in the Western States Mission, and later alongside Carol in the Provo Mission. Service was not simply something he did—it was who he was.

Carl found joy in both adventure and quiet moments. He loved fly fishing, backpacking, camping, hiking, and exploring new places. He and his family traveled countless miles together on road trips throughout the United States, creating treasured memories while discovering unique destinations. He loved reading, especially studying theology, listening to jazz music, attending live theater, watching sports, and building a collection of classic black-and-white movies that he delighted in sharing with his family.

One of Carl's greatest gifts was his ability to make people laugh. During long family road trips, he would invent hilarious stories that had the children laughing uncontrollably. His humor, combined with his gentle spirit, made every gathering brighter.
More than anything else, Carl loved his family. He faithfully attended cousins night, games, recitals, performances, and countless family activities, always showing his unwavering love and support. He was the person family and friends knew they could call when they needed help, encouragement, or simply someone to listen.

Carl is survived by his devoted wife of 58 years, Carol Gourley Nielson; his children, David Carl Nielson (Amy C. Nielson), Bruce L. Nielson (Julene Nielson), Sheila Ann Nielson, and Amy Nielson Biesinger; 12 beloved grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and his siblings, Kay Nielson Elder and Brent Nielson (Gail Nielson). Carl also considered many dear friends to be family, welcoming them into his life and heart with genuine love and kindness.

Those who knew Carl most often speak of his gentleness and kindness. His laughter, humor, wisdom, generous heart, and quiet example of Christlike love touched countless lives. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, compassion, service, and unwavering devotion to those he loved. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A viewing will be held on Monday, July 6, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., followed by a Celebration of Life at 11:00 a.m. at the chapel located at 663 West 400 North, Saratoga Springs, Utah.

Though our hearts are heavy with his passing, we rejoice in the knowledge that families are eternal and find comfort in knowing that Carl's love, faith, and example will continue to bless generations to come.