Bruce Richard Nelson

November 6, 1949 – November 28, 2024

Bruce Richard Nelson was born on November 6, 1949, in Provo, Utah, to Afton Lichfield Nelson and Aldo Claude Nelson. As the oldest of six siblings, Bruce spent his childhood immersed in adventure and hard work. He grew up working in construction with his grandpa and father, developing a lifelong passion for craftsmanship and ingenuity.

Bruce's childhood was filled with exploration and excitement. He spent countless days rockhounding, digging opals, finding arrowheads, and exploring the desert alongside his family. Rock Canyon and Yellowstone were special places for him, where he cultivated his love for nature and adventure. He especially cherished fishing trips with his grandpa Bill Lichfield.

A talented athlete, Bruce attended Provo High School, where he lettered in football. Known for his playful spirit, he famously drove a dump truck and entertained his friends by giving them a ride—and sometimes dumping them out the back for fun! He graduated in 1968 and went on to attend Brigham Young University for 3.5 years, where he continued to develop his skills and interests before embarking on a career that reflected his industrious and creative nature.

Bruce earned his general contractor's license in 1975 and went on to own and operate two successful businesses, Bruce Nelson Construction and Monolith Construction. His work as a general contractor left a lasting mark across Utah.

He was a true craftsman and artist, excelling in multiple mediums. Bruce designed and built beautiful and sturdy furniture, crafted to last generations and be passed down as treasured family heirlooms. He captured the world's beauty through his photography, which he developed in his own darkroom, and he was a skilled leatherworker who created unique bags, belts, and more. A lifelong rockhound, he polished stones and crafted jewelry, sharing his knowledge and teaching these skills to his children and grandchildren.

Bruce's adventurous spirit knew no bounds. He loved boating at Lake Powell, four-wheeling in Canyonlands, and hunting for arches as a member of the Arch and Bridge Society. In addition to hiking, he spent countless hours on his mountain bike, exploring the beauty of the Utah deserts. Bruce took his family on challenging and adventurous backpacking trips through the Escalante area, creating memories that will be cherished forever.

Bruce loved folk music and artists like John Prine, Iris DeMent, Nanci Griffith, Robert Earl Keen, and Todd Snider. His love for music extended to his family, as he took them to countless concerts.

Bruce had a special connection with animals, and they adored him in return. Over the years, he owned many dogs, each of which held a special place in his heart. Animals instinctively trusted Bruce, drawn to his kind and gentle nature. As they say, dogs are great judges of character, and every animal that came near him loved his presence.

Bruce loved his brothers and sisters and always looked forward to spending time with them. He cherished the connection they shared, treasuring every opportunity to laugh and reminisce together.

Bruce was an extraordinary dad, grandpa, and husband, whose love and dedication to his family knew no bounds. As a father, he was patient, encouraging, and always there to support and guide his daughters, instilling in them a sense of confidence and adventure. As a grandpa, he was the ultimate storyteller and teacher creating cherished memories with his grandchildren through trips to the desert, Hawaii and California, rock polishing lessons, and countless outdoor adventures. As a husband, Bruce was deeply devoted to his wife, Debbie, with whom he shared nearly 53 years of love, laughter, and partnership. His family was his greatest joy, and he poured his heart into creating a life filled with love, learning, and unforgettable experiences.

Known for his infectious optimism and humor, Bruce made everyone feel special. His positive energy and kindness left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Bruce is survived by his beloved wife Debbie and his daughters, Traci (Brett) Thompson and Callie (Ryan) Bott. He was the proud grandfather of Wyatt and Tyge Thompson and Dallin, Ella, and Landon Bott. He is also survived by his sisters, Dianne (Norm) Boshard and Linda (Terry) Ellison, and his brothers, Kim (Dawn), Gary, and Mike Nelson.

Bruce lived a full and extraordinary life, and his memory will live on in the hearts of those he touched. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for his love of life, family, and adventure.

A Viewing will be held Friday evening December 6, 2024 from 6-8pm at Walker Sanderson Funeral Home, 646 East 800 North, Orem. Graveside services will be Saturday, December 7, 2024 at 1pm in the Orem City Cemetery, 1520 North 800 East, Orem.