Obituary: Jeffrey Michael Nielson

July 27, 1955 – October 18, 2023

Jeffrey Michael Nielson, an accomplished artist and resident of Moab, died in his home on October 18, 2023, at the age of 68.

Jeffrey was born on July 27, 1955, to Mike and Audrey Nielson in Fillmore, Utah. He was the oldest of seven children. He spent his youth playing in the mountains and playing sports. His family moved to Cedar City during his senior year, where he graduated from high school. Shortly after, he joined the National Guard and started his family. 

Jeffrey enjoyed the outdoors and hunting with his dad and brothers at their family cabin on Cedar Mountain. He had five beautiful daughters that were his joy, and whom he loved with his whole heart.

Jeffrey found a love of fine art and spent his life perfecting his craft by creating beautiful oil paintings of animals and, eventually, landscapes. He lived in many beautiful places such as Lake Tahoe, NV; Sedona, AZ; and Moab, where he found inspiration for his art. He started a namesake business, Nielson Art Sales, where he created local murals, paintings, prints, and greeting cards. 

Those who knew him well would describe Jeffrey as charming, witty, talented, kind, big-hearted and funny. Throughout his life, he became fast friends with many and could easily be found chatting with a complete stranger at the grocery store like they were old friends. He spent the last few years of his life retired and living happily in Moab with his sweetheart, Jan Memmot. He spent his days painting and creating sandstone collectibles for travelers. 

He is survived by his children, Crystal Beckstrand, Sommer Leifson, Eva Sessions and Lacey Morgan; his brothers, Kim Nielson, Rondo Nielson, Tab Nielson, and Angelo Nielson; and his 21 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. 

He was preceded in death by his oldest daughter, Toshia Stettler; brother, Tyson Nielson; and sister, Angela Nielson.

At Jeffrey’s request, cremation has taken place.  A memorial service will be held at a later date.

You may send condolences to the family at www.SpanishValleyMortuary.com.