Frank Arnold Nielsen

Frank Arnold Nielsen, age 88, of Union, died September 12, 2008 at a local care facility. A funeral will be held on Friday, September 19, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. at Daniels~Knopp Funeral, Cremation & Life Celebration Center. Interment will follow at the Island City Cemetery. Viewing will be held on Friday morning from 10:00 until noon.

Mr. Nielsen was born on March 12, 1920, the son of Hans and Mabel (Galbreath) Nielsen in Pilot Rock, Oregon. In 1941 he married Magdalena Wasnuk in Toppenish, Washington. He farmed the family farm for several years before settling in Union in 1958. He worked in the construction industry driving bulldozers and was a member of the Local #701 Operating Engineers Union. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, rock hunting and making jewelry from the rocks he collected. He played many different string instruments by ear and played with a group in Baker City on a regular basis. He loved being a grandpa and tinkering in his garage.

Survivors include his children, Daniel and Ghievy Nielsen of the Philippines, Judith Nielsen of Cheyenne, Wyoming, Marla and David Whitson of La Grande and Lance and Candi Nielsen of La Grande; sister, Beverly deYoung of Grants Pass; thirteen grandchildren; numerous great grandchildren; and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death a son, Clayton in 1953, his wife, Magdalena, in 2000, a brother, Lawrence Nielsen and a sister, Barbara Murry.

Those who wish may make contribution in memory of Mr. Nielsen to the Alzheimer's Association.

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