Salt Lake City, Utah, is mourning the loss of Patrick Winn Nielson, a beloved figure in the community and a dedicated employee of Zions National Bank, who passed away on Saturday, July 20, 2024. Patrick, known affectionately as Pat, succumbed to complications from a decade-long battle with non-smoking lung cancer. His final moments were surrounded by the warmth and love of his family, a testament to the deep connections he forged throughout his life.
Patrick Nielson’s story is one of resilience, dedication, and a profound commitment to his family and community. Born on October 24, 1968, in Salt Lake City, Utah, Pat was the second oldest of seven children in the Nielson family. Raised in Bountiful, Utah, he grew up in a nurturing environment that emphasized the importance of family values and personal integrity. Pat’s early life was marked by his close-knit relationships with his five brothers and one sister, who provided a foundation of support and love throughout his life.
Pat’s formative years were significantly influenced by his decision to serve an LDS mission in Scotland. This period of his life was pivotal, shaping his character and instilling in him a sense of purpose and dedication. The lessons he learned during his mission, including tenacity and a deep reliance on his faith, would guide him throughout his life. After completing his mission, Pat pursued higher education at the University of Utah, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Finance.
Upon graduating, Pat embarked on a distinguished career at Zions National Bank, where he utilized his financial acumen to contribute to the institution’s success. While his professional skills were highly regarded, it was Pat’s personal qualities that truly set him apart. Colleagues and friends alike admired him for his unwavering friendship, his generosity, and his ability to bring a sense of camaraderie to those around him. Pat’s professional achievements were complemented by his vibrant personality and his dedication to building meaningful relationships.
Outside of work, Pat was known for his adventurous spirit and his passion for outdoor activities. He enjoyed a wide range of pursuits, including working out, riding ATVs and dirt bikes, hiking, backpacking, skiing, and participating in various sports. His zest for life and his enthusiasm for exploring new challenges were evident in the way he approached both his personal and professional endeavors.
Pat’s life took a transformative turn when he met Jennifer Lambert on a blind date. The connection between them was immediate and profound. Pat’s commitment to Jennifer was evident during their early relationship, as he eagerly sought opportunities to stay in touch with her, even while on a cruise. Their relationship flourished, and on June 21, 2005, they were married in the Salt Lake Temple, marking the beginning of a lifelong journey together.
The marriage to Jennifer brought Pat immense joy and fulfillment. It provided him with the family he had always dreamed of, and his greatest pride was his role as a father to their three children: Joshua, Morgan, and Jaxon. Pat was deeply devoted to his children, and he took great pride in their achievements and milestones. His enthusiasm for his children was palpable, and he often spoke of their accomplishments with a sense of pride and wonder.
Despite his battle with cancer, Pat remained a pillar of strength and positivity. His determination to fight the disease with courage and grace was an inspiration to those around him. Throughout his illness, Pat’s focus remained on his family and the quality of life he could provide for them. His enduring love and commitment to his wife and children were a source of comfort and strength during the challenging times he faced.
In addition to the emotional support provided by his family, a GoFundMe page has been established to assist with medical expenses and memorial costs. The fundraising effort reflects the community’s desire to support Pat’s family during this difficult time. The page has garnered significant contributions, demonstrating the widespread impact Pat had on those who knew him and the deep sense of gratitude felt by his friends and colleagues.
The community is coming together to honor Pat’s memory and celebrate his life. A viewing for family and friends will be held on Friday, July 26, 2024, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Russon Brothers Mortuary in Farmington, Utah. The following day, a memorial gathering will take place at the Kaysville Utah Haight Creek Stake Center, with visitation from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. and the funeral service beginning at 1:00 p.m. Interment will follow at the Memorial Lakeview Cemetery in Bountiful, Utah.
As the community mourns the loss of Patrick Nielson, his legacy of love, friendship, and dedication will endure. His contributions to his family, his career, and his community are a testament to the impact one person can have on the lives of others. Pat’s memory will live on through the stories shared by those who knew him and the enduring influence of his values and character. His life serves as a reminder of the importance of cherishing the moments we have with loved ones and the profound impact that kindness and commitment can have on the world.
