George was born on April 21, 1954, in Salt Lake City, UT to Lynn A. and Lois E. Nelson. He was the third of four children, arriving before his twin sister because, in his own words, "she pushed me out first."
George married the love of his life, Maureen Short, in the Salt Lake City Temple on February 21, 1975, where they were sealed for time and all eternity. They purchased their first home in Murray, where they created beautiful memories and lifelong friendships. In that home, they welcomed their first son, Brandon. Afterward, they moved to their current residence in Sandy, UT, where they expanded their family with two more sons, Andrew, and Mathew.
George and Maureen’s love for each other was so apparent; it radiated and warmed the hearts of everyone around them. The way they playfully teased and joked with one another created an atmosphere of joy and laughter. Their exceptional bond exuded comfort and familiarity, setting an example of love that others couldn’t help but admire and aspire to.
George held a deep love for his Savior and always sought to be a steadfast disciple. His faith was intricately woven into the fabric of his life. He was a man of faith and integrity, extending love and acceptance to all.
From a young age, George possessed an immense curiosity and knack for understanding the inner workings of anything mechanical. He had a natural inclination towards tinkering. This passion led him to a career in mechanical and electrical engineering. George commenced his professional journey at American Laser in 1976, where his skills and aptitude for laser tube development quickly blossomed. In 1986, with the encouragement of his partners Jon, Larry, and Steve, they established their own laser company, now known as National Laser Company.
Although George harbored a great love and passion for tinkering and lasers, his greatest passion in life was his family. He delighted in playing practical jokes, organizing scavenger hunts, arranging trips to the cabin, and waiting to see what Amazon delivered. Spending quality time with his family was his most cherished treasure. It was commonly acknowledged that if something was broken, "Papa can fix it."
As the patriarch of his family, George led by example, utilizing his priesthood to bless others. He was a man of strong character and could always be found serving others. His family extended far beyond blood relatives. The legacy crafted by George and his eternal companion, Maureen, will act as a solid foundation for generations to come.
George is survived by his wife Maureen, his siblings Brian (Gayle), Steve (Pam; deceased), and Janice (Grant), as well as his sons Brandon (Leah), Andrew (Mayra), Mathew (Megan), and Misty "ex-daughter-in-law". He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren: Kendalee, Saige, Brody, Mia, Lillie, Cole, Kaiya, Briggs, Damon, Indie, Enzo, Brooks, and Jude. He was preceded in death by his parents and granddaughter, Blaire.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, January 12, 2024, at 12:00 Noon at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints meeting center on 2535 E Newcastle Drive. A viewing will be held one hour prior to the service and on Thursday, January 11, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Entombment will take place at Wasatch Lawn Mortuary 3401 South Highland Dr. following the funeral services.
In leu of flowers please make a donation to Bowl for the Cure and Bowlers to Veterans link at gslba.com. Both charities which George quietly supported.
Funeral services will be available on Zoom: https://zoom.us/j/97408523454?pwd=YkhJQ0NiSnZnZGloWHk1TTdJNXMvdz09
