Walt Nielsen

(From Ozark Funeral Home)

Mr. Walter Ronald “Walt” Nielsen, 78, of Southwest City, Missouri, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, March 20, 2017, after months of declining health.

Walt began his earthly journey on October 28, 1938, in Sacramento, California son of the late James Stanley and Anita (Willis) Nielsen. He was raised in Chico, California and was a 1956, graduate of Chico High School. He furthered his education at Chico Junior College and later Missouri Southern State College in Joplin, Missouri. On April 2, 1965, in Reno, Nevada, he was united in marriage to Winetta Jo Walker and together they shared forty-seven years before her passing on March 21, 2013. He and Jo moved to Southwest City in 1967 from Folsom, California. Walt was a Gospel Minister for over thirty years, preaching the Word of God in various churches throughout the area. He also worked in the field of banking for several years. He worked at the Cornerstone Bank in Southwest City before retiring in 2003, from the Bank of Gravette as a loan officer. He enjoyed fishing, deer hunting and spending time outdoors. He was Mayor of Southwest City for twelve years and a Veteran of the United States Army. Even though he has gone to be with the Lord, his service will long be remembered.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Jo Nielson; and a stepson, James Jones.

Walt is survived by one daughter, Lynn Barnes and husband, Lloyd, of Southwest City; four grandchildren, Ryan Jones, Karla Crain and husband, John, Stacy Jones and Wayne Barnes and wife, Regina; four great grandchildren, Marilyn Crain, John Crain, Jr., Ronan Barnes and Kellan Barnes; a brother, Wade Nielsen of the state of California; as well as a host of other family and friends.

Funeral services for Mr. Nielsen are 10:00 a.m. Friday, March 24, 2017, at the First Baptist Church in Southwest City, Missouri, with Sister Helen Ford officiating. Burial will follow in the Southwest City Cemetery. Those honoring his life by serving as pallbearers are Wayne Holly, Doug Holly, Rick Blake, Brent Blake, Rick Pollreis and Larry Vancuren. The family will receive friends on Thursday evening from 5-7:00 p.m. in the Southwest City Chapel of the Ozark Funeral Homes. Memorials are being directed to the Cornerstone Church c/o the funeral home. On-line condolences may be sent to the family through our website www.ozarkfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of the Ozark Funeral Home in Southwest City, Missouri.