Karl Allred Nelson

Karl Allred Nelson, the solid rock of our family and a man of integrity and strength passed away with his eldest daughter by his side on February 25, 2019.  Karl, age 85, was born March 28, 1933 to Earl McKay Nelson and Katie E. Allred Nelson in Fountain Green, Utah. 

Karl was raised in Freedom, Utah and lived every young boy’s dream of growing up on a farm.  He learned to drive at age 8 sitting on a milk crate so he could chauffeur his mother around the small-town streets.  Karl was a skilled semi truck driver at the age of 16, which came with experience that would help in his future career and craft as a crane operator.  Karl met his soulmate, Mavanee King, at Moroni High School and they became high school sweethearts and life-long companions.  They were married February 14, 1952 and were later sealed in the Bountiful Temple. They spent the first few years of their marriage moving to follow work opportunities.  Eventually, they purchased their first and permanent home in Bountiful, Utah.  Karl and Mav were blessed with three beautiful daughters, Karla, Earlene, and Michelle.  Karl always put his family first and dedicated his life to providing stability for them.

Karl was a member of the Union of Operating Engineers for 66 years, joining in 1953.  His first union job was with WW Clyde Construction.  His career included working and building for several companies. He was employed by Gibbons and Reed Construction, Weyher Construction, Iverson Construction, and MASCO Steel Erection. He was one of the most trusted, skilled, and capable crane operators in the state.  Evidence of his skilled craftsmanship can be found throughout Utah and parts of Idaho and Montana.    Karl helped erect Primary Children’s Hospital, the Huntsman Center, the U of U Hospital, and the refurbishing the Cathedral of the Madeleine.  He helped construct the Great Salt Lake causeway for Union Pacific Railroad. He was also involved in construction of one of the beautiful lodges at Snow Basin Ski Resort.  Karl helped construct two bridges in St. George, Utah. One of his favorite projects was helping erect the bridge on the Beartooth Highway near Cook City, Montana.  Karl was highly sought after for jobs because of his obvious skill and the fact that others felt safe with him as the crane operator.

Karl enjoyed the outdoors. Growing up on a farm, he had an appreciation for the peace that nature has to offer. Karl and Mav spent cherished time with family and friends at the “cave” in Montezuma Canyon.  We all have our special memories of four- wheeler rides, hikes, and games. The back -porch swing made by Karl’s own hands is another place that we will visit in our dreams and memories. Enjoying a fast food burger in the quiet back yard rocking back and forth and just being in the moment seems like yesterday.  He enjoyed doing acts of service to demonstrate his love and support.  Karl was known as the neighborhood handy-man willing to serve in any and all ways including shoveling, yard-care, and repair projects.  In his spare time, you would often find him in his workshop creating beautiful woodwork pieces that he would share with family and friends.

Karl is reunited with his sweetheart (Mavanee), parents, brother (Frank), sister (Kay), and son-in law (Randy).  There is warm celebration happening in heaven and fond memories for those on Earth.  Karl is remembered and honored by his three daughters Karla (Jerome) Johnson, Earlene (Randy) Dunn, and Michelle (Tim) Morley, 9 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-grandchild.

Funeral services will be held 1:00 pm, Saturday, March 2, 2019 at Russon Mortuary, 295 North Main, Bountiful, Utah where a viewing will be held from 6-8 pm, Friday, March 2, 2019 and prior to the services from 11:45 am-12:45 pm. Interment will be at the Centerville City Cemetery. Online guestbook at www.russonmortuary.com.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Alzheimer’s Association or to a charity of your choice.