My father died today. We had known for a while that something was not quite right with his blood, and recently found out that it was leukemia. Apparently a very acute type.
My father spent his entire career teaching Geography at Ricks College, along with several religious classes. He served for nine years in the Presidency of the Rexburg Idaho North Stake, along with many other callings. He served a mission in Australia as a young man, and served another mission in Kenya recently with my mom. He had six children.
He contributed a few posts to this blog. He compared Mormonism to Taoism here, wrote about the atonement as a process here, and made a lengthy comparison between the gospel and chess here. He even had an article published in Dialogue about Christ’s World Government here.
My father was an excellent example of faithfulness and duty to his family and to the church. The older I get, it seems the more I become like him. I will miss him very much. My firm belief in the resurrection and the eternal nature of the family gives me great comfort.
‘Til we meet again, dad.
Eric Nielson
Small and Simple 
Eric,
I didn’t know your father, though I observed him from a distance as a student. He was a man of integrity. I am glad that I could meet him at SMPT.
Also, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Thanks Chris.
Oh Eric, I’m so very sorry to hear this. The example of a faithful father is a priceless blessing. My prayers are with you and your family, and with your mother.
Eric – I had not heard this news before discovering it here; please accept my heartfelt condolences. I regret I will not be able to attend the funeral, as I’m in Florida on business, but I will contact your mother.
Your parents were extraordinary missionaries, and my wife and I loved serving with them. Your father was unflappable in some pretty challenging circumstances. I hope I’m becoming more like him, too.
Eric, please accept my condolences.
May your faith and the memories of your father sustain you in the weeks to come.
Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord. Peace be with you and your family, Eric.
Best wishes, Eric. I think the finest tribute that can be paid to a father is what you have said about your becoming more and more like him.
Best wishes.
Bless your heart. My father and mother served in Kenya as well, though a while back, my father died last year.
Beautiful tribute. I’m sorry for your loss. That and the simple strength of your testimony brought tears to my eyes. May God bless you and your family at this tender time.
Great tribute. My prayers are with you and your family.