Randy Alvin Nelson

We say goodbye (and see you later alligator) to Randy Alvin Nelson. Randy passed peacefully into the next life on Tuesday, October 11, 2022. He was at home and with his family. He liked to say he loved his wife, Bonnie Jane Smith, so much he married her twice, once on April 27, 1973 and sealed in the Salt Lake temple a year later. Randy was born May 9, 1952 to Virgil Allen Nelson and Arlene Ann Lund in Salt Lake City. He attended South High School in Salt Lake City.

Randy loved everyone and that love was reflected back on him, earning him many lifelong friends and a happy life. Randy was well known for his positive, humorous and uplifting personality. He was always ready to help a neighbor, hand out popsicles to any kids around, or serve his family.

Early in his career Randy was a carpenter, building homes and taking projects on the side. His favorite was roofs and angles. His mind flew through measurements and angles faster than lightning and to watch him work was to see a master at his craft. Later, Randy put his knowledge to use in property management where he was a favorite with his tenants. After retirement, Randy served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints at the Family History Library where he assisted in genealogical work and made many dear friends.

Six years ago Randy was given 6 month survival for cancer. Determined as he was, bullheaded and positive, he lived six more years to watch his grandchildren grow. Six more years of camping in the Uinta mountains and fishing. Six more years of loving his family and doling out wisdom.

Some of his favorite sayings:

Things are never as good as they seem, or as bad as they seem.

Measure twice, cut once.

I get better looking every day!

(Tarzan Yell)

There might be someone richer than you, better looking than you, or smarter than you, but there will never be someone BETTER than you.

I know a shortcut…

Randy was preceded in death by his father Virgil and his brother Wally. Also, his in-laws, Bill and Annie Smith to whom he was very close. Survived by his wife Bonnie Smith Nelson, Troy (Sarah) Nelson, Corie Nelson, Melanie Lightner and 10 grandchildren. Also survived by his mother Arlene Lund Nelson, and siblings Danny (Linda) Nelson, Earl (Debbie) Nelson, Candy (Dave) Doud and Virgil Nelson.

A viewing will be held Sunday, October 16, 2022 between 5:00 and 7:00 pm at the Granger Ward, 2850 West 3835 South, WVC, UT 84119. The room will be open again the following day, from 10:45 to 11:45. Family prayer will be at 11:45 followed by the funeral services at 12:00 noon. Randy will be interred at the Redwood Memorial Mortuaries and Cemetery, 6500 South Redwood Road, West Jordan Utah near other family members.