Beloved Teacher Passes

Our loving father, Daryl Fred Nelson passed away at home, June 12, 2018, surrounded by music,
family, Bear Lake, and his devoted wife, Fern. Daryl was born February 18, 1939, in Fish Haven, Idaho the youngest child of Lester and Ila Nelson. In 1953, his family moved to Soda Springs, Idaho where he excelled in sports and met the prettiest girl he had ever seen, Fern Hopkins. They were married December 18, 1957, in the Logan, Utah LDS temple. This union has endured sixty years producing a legacy of love and example for their seven children, forty-four grandchildren, fifty-three great grandchildren with three more on the way. He was a father beyond the bonds of blood to many individuals through the years. 

Daryl loved life and learning, but most of all he loved people. It is no surprise his education was focused on teaching and nurturing the lives of youth; he was young at heart and understood them. Starting with a degree in Science Education from Utah State University he taught in Hagerman and Grace, Idaho where he also coached basketball, track and football. He was a beloved coach. In Hagerman, he had 5 undefeated teams the 3 years he was there and his ballplayers still invite him to their reunions. He loves them like his own children.  In Grace, he inspired the best in his football team and led them to their only undefeated season. In 1969-1971 he took his family to New Zealand where he taught at the church college and played rugby. An adventure and a place he would always treasure.

In 1973 he earned a Master’s degree which led to positions as principal for Soda Springs Elementary, Soda Springs High and Rich High Schools. He was a uniter of people and good at helping others work out differences. These skills were important as he led the consolidation of North Rich High and South Rich High, for a stronger, and more unified Righ High School. A first-generation college graduate, Dad wanted to make education attainable for all in this community. He brought to Rich County the Bridgerland Technology College, and the Utah State University Extension. He also served on the board of the Utah High School Activities Association for several years. His service to his community includes serving as Idaho’s Fifth District Science Representative.

For the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, he served in the bishopric, as bishop, in the high council, in youth programs, as a teacher, temple ordinance worker, and as a CES (Church Education System) missionary with his favorite companion in New Zealand. They were also volunteers in Palmyra, NY for a summer with their youngest daughter, Mindy.

His family is his greatest legacy. Raised in love, they are the embodiment of their father and grandfather’s teachings, wisdom and service. He was a surrogate father to many who also benefitted from his love and kindness. Truly his influence has reached thousands, he is a gentle giant of a man.

Daryl is survived by his wife, Fern; son, Brad Nelson; daughter, Darla Pack (David); son, Kurtis Nelson (DeAnn); daughter, Penilee Stevens (Tom); daughter, Lisa Hannemann (Dave); daughter, Moana Kropushek (David); daughter Mindy Nelson; 44 grandchildren, 53 great grandchildren; sister, Doris Beins (John); brother-in-law, Loyal Hopkins; brother-in-law, Clifford Hopkins; brother-in-law, Dave Giles; brother-in-law Chris Christman; many nieces and nephews.

He is preceeded in death by his daughter-in-law, Tammy Weston Nelson; parents, Lester and Ila Nelson; sister, Bernice Nelson; brother, Jay Nelson; and his dear nephew, Milton Barker Nelson, who was like a brother to him.

The viewing was  Friday, June 15, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. and Saturday June 16, 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. with funeral services following, at the St. Charles Ward, 75 N Main St, St Charles, ID 83272.