Leonard Nielsen

December 29, 1943 — September 17, 2023

Ogden — Leonard Gary Nielsen, 79, of Ogden, UT, passed away on September 17, 2023. Born on December 29, 1943, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Leonard G. and Mary Louise Hutchinson. Leonard was known to friends and family as Gary and his students as “Uncle G.”

Gary attended Abraham Lincoln High School in Denver, CO. He went on to further his education, earning a Bachelor of Science degree from Metropolitan State College of Denver and a Master’s degree from the University of Utah.

Following his high school graduation, Gary served in the Marines, demonstrating his commitment to his country. After completing his service, he transitioned into a career as a police officer in Aurora, Colorado.

Gary’s thirst for knowledge and his desire to make a difference led him to Weber State University, where he taught clinical laboratory sciences for 35 years. His dedication to education and mentorship positively impacted countless students throughout his tenure, leaving a lasting legacy.

Gary found solace in the great outdoors, spending two weeks each year camping and fishing with friends at Meadowlark Lake in Wyoming. Additionally, he was a talented musician, proficient in playing various instruments including the guitar, banjo, hammer dulcimer, accordion, and he was even trying his hand at the piano. Gary also enjoyed cowboy action shooting and was an avid collector of firearms.

Gary is survived by his brothers, Jim (Jody) and Dave (Amy), both residing in Colorado. He is also survived by his children, David, Rhonda Long, Becky Nield and Cindy Miner. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sons, Gary and Daniel Nielsen.

In recognition of his military service, Gary will be cremated and laid to rest next to his son, Gary, in the FT. Logan National Cemetery.