Edward (Ted) Nelson

Edward Almon (Ted) Nelson passed away on Sunday, July 9, 2023 at home in Enoch, Utah at the age of 98. He was born on May 8, 1925, to Royce Bengt and Emma Lambson Nelson in Cedar City, Utah. He was raised on his family’s sheep ranch and graduated from Cedar High School. He enlisted in the Navy, and at the end of the war returned home to resume his schooling.

Ted attended the Branch Agricultural College where he met his wife, Vana Darlene Oldroyd. They were married on February 27, 1948 in the Manti, Utah Temple. His schooling continued at Utah State University, and then at Kansas State University where he earned a Doctorate in Sheep and Wool Production. While raising his family, Ted taught at the California Polytechnic University in Pomona. During the summers, the family would return to Cedar City to herd sheep on the mountain, often hosting guests for deep-pit mutton roasts at the sheep camp. His career took him and his family all over the world to study and host sheep and goat programs for farmers in developing communities. He served in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day saints as home teacher, bishop, missionary, and patriarch. His tireless dedication to faith, family, education, and agriculture established a lasting legacy that his family proudly perpetuates today.

He is survived by his sister Luana Warner (Lloyd); his children Neil, Caroline Howe (Gary), Susan Christopher (David), Lee (Sandra Harvey), Vanae Nelson (Rob Gusti), Lisa Ann Bay (Colin), and Carola Garfias; 21 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents Royce and Emma; his wife, Vana; and siblings Howard, Marie, Clara Jean, Garth (Bud), Richard, and Shirley.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, July 22, 2023, at 10:00 am in the Enoch Wards chapel at 451 East Midvalley Road, Enoch, Utah, preceded by a viewing at 9:00 am. Interment will be in the Cedar City Cemetery, under the direction of Southern Utah Mortuary. Online condolences can be sent at www.mortuary.org