Allen Russell Nielson

Allen Russell Nielson (86) passed away on August 16, 2026 of natural causes in Mesa, AZ.

He was born in 1940 in Albuquerque, New Mexico, to Allen G. Nielson and Luella Russell, the 2nd of five children. He graduated from Mesa High School in 1957 and Brigham Young University in 1964 with a degree in business.

Russ and Mary Ada Thomas met on a blind date and they were married June 28, 1963. Russ worked for the family lumber business and later expanded it into many other areas of building materials, building components, contracting, and land development. He worked as a home builder and developer until his death. He even filed for a building permit the week of his death. Russ served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in the Spanish American Mission, based in San Antonio, Texas. He later served as a missionary with Mary in Kirtland, OH in 2007 and in the London South Mission from 2013-2014. He found joy in serving and spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ. Russ served on the EVIT board of governors for many years, including a term as president. He was an active member of the Mesa Rotary Club and enjoyed serving in the community.

He is survived by his wife, Mary, and 10 children. Debbie Brown (Clint), Diane Barazoto (David), Peter (Darin), Alice DeWitt (Jay), Helena Hart (Bryan), Heidi Packard, Christian (Stephanie), Stephen (Leone), Elizabeth Bryant (David) and Marcus (Ashley), 48 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by daughter Charity Haslip (Mark).

Russ never forgot his family roots and developed the family ranch in Bluewater, New Mexico into a special place for reunions and happy memories. He will be remembered for his eternal optimism, generosity, big hugs, the twinkle in his eye, mashed potatoes, and his dedication to Jesus Christ. He devoted his life to serving in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The Nielson family thanks the many healthcare workers who cared for Russ during his stays at Banner Heart Hospital.

Burial at City of Mesa Cemetery.

Memorial Service: Saturday, August 22, 2026 at 10:00 am The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 920 S. Lindsay Road Mesa, AZ

Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.