To quote our dear dad, "Nothing is Forever." And how right he was. On April 24, he lost to cancer, but felt like he had won by making it to his 80th birthday. He'd be the first to say how lucky his life was — and this brief summary hardly does it justice.

Born in Mitchell to two supportive parents, he was encouraged to explore his interests. And did he have many! Besides his endless curiosity, one of the most fascinating aspects of his character is how determined he was. He succeeded in making his passions his life, both work and play.

At 14, his first official job was at a garage that his dad managed. He took pride in his work, and the customers noticed. After leaving the garage, he entered the Army and worked with a traveling theater. When not on duty, he would travel as much as he could. After returning home, he got serious with the guitar. It didn't take long before he had formed a band and was paying his way through college with weekend gigs. With a business degree, he headed down to Keystone and owned 2 different businesses. Six months a year, he would work sun-up to sun-down, while the rest of the year was dedicated to restoring old cars, playing guitar, and reading about his collections. It's from the Rushmore Aerial Tramway that he finally retired, making time for family and hobbies.

Whether it was attending our performances, a sympathetic ear on the phone, or working out a new tune on guitar, he was always present and involved. We shared countless meals and coffee dates, mulling over old times and enjoying his many phrases and nicknames.

If there is anything to give us comfort, it's that he loved life. He worked hard, played hard, and made a lasting impression on everyone he met. We are so lucky to have shared our lives with him.

He is survived by his children, Jennifer Nielsen, Nancy Nielsen McGrath, and Jon Nielsen; his sister, Vicki Thomas and many other loved ones.

His funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, April 27, at Black Hills National Cemetery, with military honors. A procession will leave Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home at 12:15 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggest donations to Hospice of the Hills, 225 Elk St., Rapid City, SD 57701.