Lee Nelson

This week we lost a pillar of our community, a man of strong character, deep conviction, a charitable heart, steady labor, and enduring faitha€"Ethan Lee Nelson, age 91, of Ioka, has crossed the veil to reunite with those loved ones who preceded him in death.
Lee, as he is known by those who loved him, passed away peacefully on April 12, 2016 in the home of his daughter, Lisa.
Lee was born on June 4, 1924 in Roosevelt, Utah. He was the youngest child of Ethan Charles Nelson and Myrtle Cordella Petersen. Most his life he proudly called the Uintah Basin his home.
After graduation from Roosevelt High School, he enlisted in the US Navy. Truly part of The Greatest Generation, he was assigned to be a gunner on the aircraft carrier USS Gilbert Islands and served with honor through harrowing experiences throughout the Pacific and off the coast of Japan.
Following the war, Lee became reacquainted with Louise Mathews, a beautiful young girl he had met in High School. Their courtship blossomed and they married on Nov 27,1947; they later sealed their bond for eternity in the Salt Lake Temple, on Sept 9, 1977. She died February 27, 2013.
As newlyweds, Lee and Louise settled in Ioka to help Lee's father with the farm. Shortly thereafter Lee's father passed away; but, Lloyd Nelson (Lee's brother) and his wife Fern, soon joined them in the labor. Together they created a substantial dairy operation.
Many know Lee as the exemplary owner of the International Harvester dealership in Roosevelt, for which he became a well-respected businessman in the community. He received many awards for sales and service attesting to the fact.
Besides serving as County Commissioner, Lee received many community service awards including recognition in 2004 as a recipient of the Duchesne County Lifetime Service and Achievement Award. In 2005 he was recognized by the Duchesne County Cattleman's Association for his efforts in helping to build the business.
Beyond his civic service, Lee served as bishop of the Roosevelt sixth ward and as a member the Roosevelt Stake Presidency. He and his wife also served joyfully in the Provo and Vernal temples.
Lee is survived by his children: Linda (Roy H.) Emmett, Puyallup, Wash; Brad (JoAnn) Nelson, Ioka; Lorie (Rodney) Lisonbee Highland, Utah; Lisa (Leon) Nielsen, Roosevelt; 20 grandchildren, 55 soon to be 57 great grandchildren, 11 great great grandchildren; and a sister, Erma Swanson of Sandy, Utah.
He is preceded in death by his wife, Louise Nelson, sister Joy Shumate Meredith and Lloyd Charles Nelson.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, April 15, 2016 in the Myton LDS Chapel at 11:00 a.m. Viewings will be held on Thursday evening from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. at the Hullinger Mortuary and Friday at the church from 9:30 - 10:30.
Burial in the Roosevelt Memorial Park with military honors presented by the Roosevelt American Legion and the Utah National Guard.
Condolences may be shared at www.hullingermortuary.com