Dave died March 15,2025, after a long battle with cancer.
David Richards Nielsen, born February 18, 1951, in Salt Lake City, Utah, passed away peacefully on March 15, 2025, surrounded by his beloved wife, Rebecca (Becky), and their four children in his Mesa, Arizona home. A man of extraordinary character, David's life was defined by unwavering faith, boundless love, and an indomitable spirit.
David was the sixth of eleven children born to Arthur Hansen and Vera Richards Nielsen. His childhood was marked by a profound work ethic, vibrant family life, and a love for learning and sports. A student body president and Hope of America Award recipient in elementary school, senior class president and standout athlete in high school, David's early accomplishments set the tone for a life of excellence.
A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, David served a two-year mission in Germany, an experience that shaped his lifelong commitment to faith and service. David earned a BA in Business Management and then his Doctor of Medicine from the University of Utah where he completed a Residency in Otolaryngology. He furthered his training as a Specialist in Otologic Surgery, completing a Fellowship in Detroit, MI. As a pioneering ear surgeon in Phoenix, he performed one of the first cochlear implants in Arizona, and championed advancements in medical care, including the use of laser ear surgery.
David's career extended beyond medicine into leadership roles with the Arizona Medical Association and at the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, where he served as CEO for 14 years. He was known for his visionary leadership and passion for improving healthcare systems. He had a great appreciation for all of the staff and many physicians and other healthcare advocates he had the blessing of knowing in his professional career.
David's personal life was equally rich. In 1973, he was married for time and all eternity to Rebecca (Becky) Child in the Salt Lake City, Utah Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They built a beautiful life together filled with adventure, music, and deep spiritual devotion. One of David’s passions was cycling which he shared with his family on frequent Saturday morning rides. He and Becky spent countless hours riding a tandem bicycle together, including several trips cycling through Vermont. David cherished his role as a husband, as a father to Joel, Heidi, Jared, and Trevor, and as a grandfather to 14 grandchildren, who were his greatest joy.
David faced a nine-year battle with multiple myeloma and, later, pancreatic cancer, with resilience and grace. Through it all, his faith never wavered. He found solace in scripture study, temple service, and meaningful relationships with caregivers and loved ones. David and his family were profoundly grateful for the compassionate care he received from his many healthcare providers.
David will be remembered as a man of kindness, gratitude, and unyielding optimism. His legacy is one of love, faith, and service—a beacon of light to all who knew him. He now rests in eternal peace, reunited with his Savior and those who have gone before him.
David is survived by his wife, Becky, his children, Joel (Staci) Nielsen, Heidi (Glen) Millett, Jared Nielsen, Trevor (Michelle) Nielsen, and 14 beloved grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a still-born daughter, Rebecca Nielsen, a sister, Marie Schreiner, and a brother, Ralph R. Nielsen.
Memorial services will be held on Saturday, March 29th 11:00am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints - 7752 E McDowell Rd, Mesa, Arizona 85207. Visitations will be held at this location on Friday, March 28th 6:30pm-8:00pm, and Saturday, March 29th 10:00am-10:45am before the memorial services.
Flower donations can be made through Wyman Cremation and Burial Chapel or delivered directly to the memorial service location Friday, March 28th after 1:00pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center’s Patient Assistance Fund in David’s honor - give.bannerhealth.com/davidnielsenmemorial.
https://www.afterall.com/obituaries/d-19933472/mesa-arizona/david-richards-nielsen/march-2025
Judd Funk
Very sad to hear. Definitely one of good guys. I remember him being both studious and goofy fun at Highland - a rare combination that obviously propelled him onto what obviously was an incredibly rich life in so many capacities.
Greg Whiting
So sorry to hear of Dave's passing. One of the nicest people I have ever known. RIP my friend.
Diana Nelson (Gray)
To Dave's wife Becky, his family, grandchildren, and fellow Rams---we share in your sadness in not having Dave here with us. He was the best president and leader of our 1969 Senior Class at Highland. He always reached out to all students to be a friend to them and set an example of kindess to others. As a great doctor he went the extra mile in helping patients with his service to different groups and improving the medical treatments and research. We will miss his dedication to life and his awesome attitude through adversity. Fond memories come to mind of knowing Dave and his family at their home on 17th South entertaining the neighborhood, church groups, school chums and friends within the beautiful yard and pool. Always good food, good music, and great company. He helped one to feel welcomed and loved. When in Arizona we connected a ffew times and had good chats about our paths past and present. He was always encouraging to conintue on with good works. Thank you Dave for letting us know you. May your family be blessed and may you rest in peace until we meet again. Your friends, John (HH67) & Diana Gray.
Robb Cundick (Cundick)
I haven't seen Dave in a long while and am so sorry to hear this. I served in the same mission as he in Germany. What a great guy! Always so friendly and open. Certainly a life well lived!
William R. Stringham
Such sad news. Dave was everyone's friend and supporter. He lived a richly fulfilling life of service. We will miss him, greatly.
Alan Browning (Browning)
Dave Nielsen, one that you know and can never ever forget. He was one of a kind in every way. May God bless your family throught you my friend, Alan
Rick Sutter
Very disheartened to hear of David's passing.
Life is eternal, love and friendships never end; And death is only a horizon, And a horizon is nothing save the limit of our sight. I know for certain that we never lose the people and friends we love, even to death. They continue to participate in our thoughts and memories, especially our fond memories of our classmates at Highland High. Their lives leave an indelible imprint in our memories. We find comfort in knowing that our lives have been enriched by having shared their lives, and of course, we will meet again.
With Deepest Sympathy, Rick & Marilyn Sutter
Douglas M. Richardson
What a good man..! Dave was always such a good friend, and example, to all who knew him..!
Linda Adams (DeVore)
I am just seeing this and I am so sad. David was one of the greats at Highland. He was a friend to all. He was a great class President. My condolences to his wife, Becky and all of his children and grandchildren. God be with you, til we meet again.
Gerald Blomquist
Although we only lived about 5 miles apart, I lost touch with him after the last reunion. We had a few friends in common. All of them considered him an extraordinary gentleman and a friend. He said very little of his battles, a true hero.