Vernol Howard Nelson

Vernol Howard Nelson passed away on December 6, 2019 at the EIRMC Hospital. He was born on October 7th, 1937 in Idaho Falls, Idaho to Howard Edmond Nelson and Ella May Pettingill Nelson. He was the second of 5 children including Roy, Joyce, Vonda and Von.

Vern met and married his sweetheart Ann Butikofer in the Idaho Falls Temple on August 31, 1961. Through this union they were blessed with 8 children: Mark (Karen), Kurt (Corinne), Gregg (Christine), Brett (Monica), Amy Bangerter (Rich), Randal (Marian), Jordan (Kendra), and Annisa Boogaard (Peter). Vern was the proud grandparent of 36 grand children and 15 great-grand children.

Vern grew up active in sports, participating in baseball, basketball, tennis, golf and boxing. One of his favorite activities was to play sports or watch sporting events with his children and grandchildren.

From a young age, he learned the value of hard work, which he later instilled in his 8 children. He had many part time jobs throughout his youth and along with his career in finance, usually held additional part-time jobs to provide for a growing family. Vern loved working outdoors and took pride in his beautiful yard and garden.

Vern graduated from Idaho Falls High School in 1955 and attended Ricks College. When a call to serve came from the Lord, he chose to sell his beautiful 2-door Chevy to finance his mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. He faithfully served for 2 years in the Northern States Mission, which solidified his foundation of faith and provided a stepping stone for many more callings in the church throughout his life, including many leadership positions. Vern loved to serve the Lord and served faithfully in any capacity that was asked of him.

After completing his mission, he enlisted in the Idaho National Guard where he was called to active duty during the Berlin Crisis. Although the crisis was resolved before his unit deployed, Vern was willing to serve at any cost because he loved his country.

One of the great joys in Vern's life was raising a family rooted in the gospel of Jesus Christ. Though there were struggles and tears, they were far outweighed by the blessings and happiness of seeing his children follow the example of the Savior.

Vern and Ann served as full time senior missionaries in the Philippines Queson City Mission and at the Idaho Falls Temple Visitors Center. Vern was an active participant in the indexing program of the church, and loved serving as an ordinance worker at the temple.
Despite his varied interests, Vern loved spending time with his grandchildren and understood that his most important relationships were with his family. He was a true example of love and charity.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 A.M. Friday, December 13, 2019 at the Shelley South Stake Center (675 South Milton Ave.). The family will receive friends on Thursday evening from 6:00 to 7:30 P.M. at Nalder Funeral Home (110 West Oak, Shelley) and Friday morning from 9:30 to 10:40 AM at the church. Burial will be in the Grant Central Cemetery with military rites.