In loving memory of Grandpa Neilson

Virgil Albert Neilson

July 17, 1926-June 23, 2009

This is probably the most difficult event to write about so far. My grandfather passed away on Wednesday, June 23, 2009. He has suffered two different strokes within the last few months, that really took a toll on his life. Towards the end he was having difficulty speaking and remembering, and was just slowing down in general. We were expecting him to pass away any day because he wasn't doing very well at all. My parents have made a few trips this month down to Idaho to visit him before he leaves us. We are so happy he didn't have to suffer very long and we know we will be able to see him again after this life. The gospel makes deaths so much easier to deal with when you understand where we go after we die and know that families can be together forever. Grandpa was a very hard worker. My family had the privilege of working side by side with him for years and years on my fathers farm. My siblings and I became very close to him and my Grandma Neilson by living so close to them all my growing up years. My grandfather was also a legacy of faith and devotion to the gospel. He has served as a bishop and patriarch, as well as many other callings. Me, as well as some of my siblings and cousins had the opportunity to have him bless us with wonderful patriarchal blessings in his home. My grandfather also served as a paratrooper in World War II, as well as was trained in demolition in the war. He served a long and righteous life that now leads his children and grandchildren with a great example to follow. Grandpa had 8 children (7 living), 43 grandchildren, and 70 great grandchildren. After hearing of his passing, Jamie and I headed that next day up to Idaho, to make it for his funeral that weekend. We drove all night and got in at about 3:3o a.m. My immediate family came down from Montana, and all of my extended family also came up from all over the country. Jamie's mom and her husband were so kind invite us to their home and put my entire family up on Friday night. We really didn't want to split up because this is the first time since Derik left on his mission that we have all been together. It was so nice of Michele to offer. She is such a sweet heart and we just love her to death. Sid just came home from his mission the afternoon before my family headed down for the funeral. It's too bad he wasn't able to see grandpa just one more time. But it's a blessing he was still able to be here for the funeral. Friday night was the viewing, and Saturday was his funeral. He was buried in the Parker, Idaho cemetry, next to my grandmother, his son Steve, and his brother Tad, who was killed in the World War II.
Me, R.J., Preston and Parker at the viewing.

My sis and I at the viewing.

My sister Amy and my brother Baden.

Jamie, Derik, R.J., and Sid. What a handsome group of guys! Sid and Baden were both pallbearers along with cousins.

Me and my grandparent's grave.

Dad and his oldest brother, Uncle Tad. Doesn't my dad look sharp?!

Derik and Jamie. Woot-woot!

My whole family, minus three nephews.

My grandfather's salute for serving in the WWII.

My dad and all his siblings. Sonya, Jennifer, Julie, Dad, David, Patsy, and Tad.

After the funeral, we all stayed at a hotel. We went swimming and just hung out and had a good time. On Sunday, we spent some time on the temple grounds. This is the first time the whole family has been together since Derik left on his mission.

The best we could do with getting all the kids looking at the camera! Left to right: Parker, Trenton, Preston, Wade, Dad, Troy, and Wyatt, and Baden.

Awww.... :)

Baden and Em... I love this pic!

The returned missionary! It's so good to have him back! Doesn't he look good?!

My silly brothers.

Jamie playing swords with the nephews.

Although it was difficult to say our last goodbyes, we know that he is in a better place and we will be able to see him again by staying to true to the faith. We love you grandpa and will miss you.

God be with you 'til we meet again...