Robert “Bob” Michael Neilsen, 80, passed away on Aug. 24, 2024, at Crawford County Memorial Hospital, Denison. He was born at St. Joseph's Mercy Hospital on Aug. 30, 1943, in Sioux City. He was the son of Vernon Van and Loretta Jetta (Kirby) Neilsen. Growing up in Sioux City, Bob, along with his twin brother Richard, graduated 8th grade from Immaculate Conception School and graduated high school from Heelan High with the Class of 1962. Bob served our country proudly in the United States Army from February of 1966 to January of 1969. He was very proud of his tour of duty spent in Germany. After two years, 11 months and 12 days, Bob received his honorable discharge. After the service, Bob married Carol Storm in 1969. Bob and Carol were blessed with six children. Their house was a revolving door with friends and family always welcome. Bob not only welcomed two foreign exchange students, but he also welcomed all of the neighborhood kids. Bob spent a lifetime working in the food industry. He worked for Iowa Beef Packing Company in Dakota City, Neb. He continued at World Wide Meat Company Denison from 1969-1979 and Dubuque Packing Company from 1979-1987 and finally, Beef America- Norfolk, Neb. from 1987-1998. Bob worked with Food Inspection and Quality Control. His final job was as a State Food and Health Inspector.
Between Bob’s “naps”, he enjoyed bowling, hunting, fishing, camping, gardening, neighborhood coffee, leisurely bike rides around town and making jerky. He was also a proud and avid golfer who was always ready to share his skills. Bob never missed an opportunity to encourage and inspire golf to many kids in the community or anyone interested in golf. As many know, Bob never passed up a good buffet. He also had a knack for conversation and never met a stranger. Most of all, Bob was very proud of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and he enjoyed anything they were involved in.
Bob leaves behind his beloved wife, Carol; six children, Terry (Chari) Ueding of Lyons, Neb., Candace Ueding of Dow City, Jerry (Nikki) Neilsen of Norfolk, Neb., Tamera King of Warrensburg, Mo., Larry (Bobbie Jo) Neilsen of Austin, Minn., Gary (Jennifer) Neilsen of Dunlap and a bonus daughter, Gina of Brazil. Papa Bob sadly but lovingly leaves sixteen grandkids and nineteen great-grandchildren with another on the way! Bob also leaves behind his three brothers and their spouses, Vincent (Clare) Neilsen and Lawrence (Georgia) Neilsen of Sioux City and Richard Neilsen of Texas along with numerous relatives and friends. Bob was preceded in death by his parents Vernon and Loretta Neilsen; his grandson, Timothy Martens; and father/mother-in-law, Lyle and Alice Storm.
A funeral service was held on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2024, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Dunlap. Rev. Samuel Danso presided over the service. The musicians were Sabrina Cogdill and Julie Burhoop. The honorary pallbearers were Rick Vogt, Jim Randol, Kenny Thomsen and the late Timothy Martens. The pallbearers were Tyler Neilsen, Tate Neilsen, Caden Neilsen, Cameron King, Landon Burhoop and Steve Brauhn. Bob’s final resting place is at the Dow City Cemetery.
Fouts Funeral Home in Dunlap was in charge of arrangements. www.foutsfuneralhome.com
