Jason Nielsen

On July 7, 2021, Jason, age 38, died unexpectedly in a car crash near Durango, Colorado while on vacation with his family.

Jason, born in Fort Collins, CO, was God’s precious gift to Byron and Marty Nielsen. As the only son he soon learned to be a caring big brother to his three younger sisters, a care that continued through his entire life. Growing up in the same community from birth through high school allowed him to pursue his interest in music and soccer yet still allowing time for connection with grandparents, cousins and friends. In high school, he graduated in the International Baccalaureate Program and then received his Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Bradley University in Illinois. During these years he made special life-long friends.

His professional life began as a software engineer with the medical company EPIC, in Madison, WI. Beyond the sedentary work day he was active in biking to and from work and playing in several soccer leagues. He continued to pursue his love of music by playing in an EPIC band. Through a benefit of his employer he and his father traveled to New Zealand during a month long sabbatical, a special highlight in life.

His bachelor years ended when he met the love of his life, Erin Peterson and they married in 2015. He was blessed to be welcomed into and loved by the Peterson family. Together Jason and Erin experienced the joy of visiting many destinations as well as adventuring in local places. The joy of life expanded when their only child, Taylor, was born. For the past five years the family has had the opportunity to introduce Taylor to many wonders of the world. Whenever possible the mode of transportation was his cargo bike with a custom riding compartment for Taylor. Daily, Jason took delight in sharing how things work with Taylor.

He will be missed in so many ways. His incessantly inventive mind, warm smile and loving heart are just a few.

Jason is survived by his wife Erin Nielsen (Peterson), and son Taylor of Madison, WI; his parents Byron and Marty Nielsen of Fort Collins, CO; three sisters and their families: Margo (Karl) Whitman of Wellington, CO, Elizabeth (Carl) Dernell of Milwaukee, WI, Tanya (Tony) Ollila of Wellington, CO; two grandmothers, Winnette and Ruth, and many aunts, uncles and cousins. He is also survived by his loving in-law family, parents Wayne and Darcy Peterson of Plymouth, MN; siblings and their families: Brigette (Erik) Kerber, Andrew (Emily) Peterson; brother-like friends Shom Bandopadhaya, and Ken Kao. He was proceeded in death by two grandfathers, Erwin and Paul.