Richard Mark Nielsen

Richard (Rick) Mark Nielsen, the second of eleven children born to the late Eldon and Eunice Nielsen, entered the world on June 24, 1946, in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Rick grew up in Idaho Falls until his senior year when his family moved to Gering Nebraska where he graduated from high school. He served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints when he was 19 in the Northern California Mission.  Upon completion of his mission, Rick returned home and attended Brigham Young University where he later graduated with a master’s degree in communications.

Rick met his beloved wife at BYU, and they were married in the Salt Lake City temple. He worked as an Educator for 35 years, retiring as an Elementary Principal from Lava Hot Springs. Upon retiring, he and his wife served a 2-year mission in the Dominican Republic.

Committed to learning and leadership throughout his life, he was known for his kindness, patience, his steady faith, and his unwavering dedication to his family and the gospel of Jesus Christ which he cherished.

Rick passed away peacefully on January 21, 2026, while faithfully serving with his wife in the Guatemala East Mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Rick is survived by his wife of 49 years, Cheryse, and his 6 children; Andrew (Jennifer), Andrea, Gabriel (Jasmine), Michael, Jasen, Ashleigh and 7 grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to the missionary department of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 12146 W Tyhee Road, Pocatello, ID. Burial will follow at the Norton Cemetery, McCammon, Idaho.

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