With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Kelly Martin Nielsen, 45, of Salem, Utah. A beloved husband, devoted father, cherished son and brother, and loyal friend to all who knew him, Kelly tragically lost his life in a farm accident. We are heartbroken and devastated by his sudden passing, yet we find comfort in the countless lives he touched, the legacy of love he leaves behind, and in our faith and knowledge that we will be with him again.
Born on November 9, 1979, Kelly was raised in Spanish Fork, Utah. From a young age, he could often be found working alongside his dad and older brother, where he developed a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for family. Though somewhat reluctant, Kelly spent over a decade singing in the Utah Valley Children’s Choir—a chapter of his life he’d jokingly resist but ultimately credit for helping him gain his testimony of the gospel and form lifelong friendships. During his teenage years, he frequently wrestled with the decision to attend class or sneak away to the canyon with his brother and friends. While the canyon won more than a few times, we’re proud to say he graduated from Spanish Fork High School—earning both an education and a long list of unforgettable adventures.
Kelly served faithfully as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Michigan Lansing Mission. Shortly after returning home, he married his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Jennifer Rees, on June 24, 1999 for time and all eternity in the Mount Timpanogos Temple. Together they built a beautiful life, raising four incredible children—Savannah, Brooklyn, Wyatt, and Rees—who were the center of his world.
Whether spending time at the family cabin, carving fresh trails on his snowmobile, hiking through the mountains on a hunt, working on the farm, or playing at Lake Powell, Kelly was always in his element. He lived for adventure, big or small. For Kelly, the destination never mattered as much as the company. His greatest happiness came from making memories with those he loved most, turning everyday outings into legendary (and usually hilarious) stories his family will cherish forever.
Kelly brought light, laughter, and love to everyone he met. He was the life of the party and the glue that held so many together. Kelly had a unique gift: he made everyone feel seen, heard, and valued. His warmth, quick wit, and genuine kindness left a lasting impression on all who crossed his path. Kelly was a constant in the lives of so many, and always the first one ready with a helping hand, listening ear, or a well-timed joke. He made friends everywhere he went, and truly, he never met a stranger.
Kelly was preceded in death by his father, Jeffrey, and we find comfort in knowing that their joyful reunion has surely made heaven a little louder and a lot more fun.
He leaves behind his loving wife, Jennifer; his four children, Savannah (Luke) Adams of Santaquin, Brooklyn (fiancé Raden Gonzalez), Wyatt, and Rees; his mother, Janice Nielsen Hendrix; and his in-laws, Steven and Linda Rees. He is also survived by his siblings, Cory (Elisha) Nielsen, Jamie (Chris) Knudsen, Jake (Megan) Nielsen, and Jess (Mike) Beach, and dozens of nieces and nephews who absolutely adored him, as well as a wide circle of extended family and friends who will forever carry his legacy of love and selfless service. Kelly was everyone’s favorite guy.
Kelly’s life was a testament to what it means to truly live with purpose as a devoted disciple of Jesus Christ. He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered. We love you, Kelly!
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, July 3, 2025 at 11:00 a.m in the Salem Stake Center, 470 E. Salem Canal Road, Salem, Utah. Viewings will be held on Wednesday July 2, 2025 from 6-8:00 p.m. at Walker Funeral Home, 187 South Main Street, Spanish Fork, Utah and onThursday from 9:45-10:45 a.m. at the church prior to the funeral service. Interment will follow the funeral service and will take place in the Salem Cemetery.

The funeral service will be broadcast from this webpage. Please return to this page prior to the funeral for a link to the broadcast

Kelly Nielsen Livestream Broadcast