Philip Clair Nelson

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FERRON Utah-Philip Clair Nelson, age 89, our beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend passed away peacefully Dec. 13, 2013, in Ferron, Utah, of causes incident to age. Philip was born Feb. 24, 1924 in Ferron, Utah, the eighth of 10 children born to Guy and Eunice Madsen Nelson. His childhood was filled with wonderful years where he formed many special relationships with school and neighborhood peers. Although of Danish ancestry, he was affectionately referred to as “Swede” by family and friends. In high school, Philip excelled in all sports and was especially known for his accomplishments in track and field, both locally and on the state level. He also served as student -body president.
He honorably served his country during WWII as a member of the Seabees branch of the Navy. During this time, he was a D-8 Cat operator. He was instrumental in the construction of several airfields in the Pacific Theater where he also took part in three major invasions. He remained faithful to the military by participating with other local veterans in celebrations and performing military rites at funerals.
After the war he returned to Ferron and married Doris Jean Nelson on June 16, 1946, later solemnized in the Manti Temple on July 27, 1950. He attended Brigham Young University and was a star hurdler on the track team, culminating in winning the Skyline Conference High Hurdle Championship. Later as an avid BYU fan, he loyally supported BYU athletics, traveling extensively in and out of the state to follow the Cougars. He also had a great love and appreciation for local high school and junior high sports.
After college Philip returned to Ferron and began a 35 year teaching and coaching career at South Emery High School and San Rafael Junior High. He was an outstanding teacher and coach, fondly remembered by former students who regularly invited him to attend their class reunions.
Philip enjoyed farming and was especially pleased to have raised many fine Arabian horses. He was elected to the Emery County School Board and served in many callings in the LDS church, including Bishop. He and Doris immensely enjoyed time spent as ordinance workers in the Manti LDS Temple.
Philip was preceded in death by his wife, Doris, parents, three brothers and five sisters. He is survived by sons, Philip Dean (LaRita), Ferron; Scott Herbert, Hesperia, Calif.; Ted Barry (Debbi), Rancho Palos Verde, Calif.; sister, Carol Bell McArthur, 14 grandchildren and 31 great-grandchildren.
Funeral Services will be Saturday, Dec. 21, 2013 at 2 p.m. at the Millsite/Blue Hills LDS Chapel, 35 W. 200 N., Ferron. A viewing will be held Fri., Dec. 20 from 6-7 p.m. at the Fausett Mortuary, 720 N. Center Street, Castle Dale and Sat., Dec. 21 from 12:30-1:30 p.m. at the church prior to the services. Interment will be in the Ferron City Cemetery. Services are in the care of Fausett Mortuary. Friends and family may sign the guestbook and share memories of Philip at www.fausettmortuary.com.