Thomas Christian Nielsen

THOMAS CHRISTIAN NIELSEN

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Thomas Christian Nielsen.  Thomas was born on June 3, 1940 and peacefully departed at home with his wife and son by his bedside on July 30, 2023.

Thomas went into the Navy for two years.  He then graduated with a BA from Santa Rosa Junior College and was on the Deans’ Honor List.

Thomas started out working at a motorcycle shop until his mother insisted he get a real career.  So, he applied to work as a marine machinist at Mare Island in Vallejo, CA which built nuclear submarines.  He worked there for 25 years in various positions.

At that time, he was married to his first wife Sandra of 25 years who passed from cancer.

After her death, he retired from Mare Island and joined the firehouse in Kenwood, CA as worker and volunteer firefighter for five years.  He then moved with his second wife Leena and young son Scott to Montrose, CO.  He worked various jobs and when Home Depot came to Montrose, he worked there for 12 years.

Thomas could work on anything imaginable.  He was very mechanically inclined – jack of all trades and master of most.  He also delved into computers like a master at a later stage in life.

Thomas enjoyed racing, boating, hiking, camping, motorcycles and simply taking long walks.  He was an avid reader of technical books.

Thomas was a very humble man whom never bragged on his accomplishments.  He was loved by everyone for his kindness and sincerity.

Thomas leaves behind his beloved wife Leena, Betty Diehl, sister, Charles Nielsen, brother, Dannette Correll, daughter, Scott Nielsen, son.  Also, granddaughters Megan Osborne and Ainsley Nielsen along with two great grandsons Noah and Marley Osborne (with another great grandson on the way).

Thomas asked that no service was to be held.  So let us celebrate a life well-lived and may his soul rest in eternal peace.

In lieu of flowers we would like for Hope West in Montrose, CO to receive your donations.  They are our angels.