Sterling Neilson

November 20,1946- November 25,2024 Our world will never be the same after November 25th, 2024, as we lost our husband, roommate, dad, grandpa, brother, uncle, nephew, and friend, who recently celebrated his 78th birthday and his 36th wedding anniversary. We lost him unexpectedly in his sleep in the comfort of his home, which was the heart of all his family gatherings. Sterling was born November 20, 1946, in Rupert, Idaho to Irene Guisasola and Glen Neilson. He graduated from Minco High School in 1964. Sterling had two children, Cody and Gretchen. He married the love of his life Christy Lynn Taylor on November 18, 1988. Where he gained the title of “dad” to Britnie and Skyler. His pride and joy were his eight grandchildren. He was proud of every one of them. He loved to attend football games, soccer games, building projects, and teaching them survival skills. He would actively travel to Utah, Wyoming and Texas to attend their accomplishments.

He made many memories with his children and grandchildren at his favorite camping spot in Sublett, Idaho. Nobody would ever go hungry when Sterling was around as he was a great cook. He would make sure everyone started their day off right with a cup of coffee, an egg and grandpa pancakes to their request.

He not only will be missed by his family but also the community of Rupert, Idaho. He built many relationships with his local lawn mowing and snow removal company. On a snowstorm he was the first person on the road to help. He served as a local fire commissioner. Many in the community will miss him showing up in his pickup with his Maggie and Millie in their seats. He loved taking his girls for a ride. Snuggles in his recliner with both his pups was the best way to end a long day. He was known as the ‘tough guy’ but anyone that had the pleasure of knowing him knew he was a giant TEDDY BEAR. He was always the first person to share his veggies he had a passion for growing. A day never went by when he wasn’t in his garage fixing something broken or making something function better.

He would always tell the best stories about his childhood and shared many laughs about all his memories.

Sterling is survived by his lifelong toots, Christy Lynn, children Cody Neilson, Gretchen McCafferty (Mike) Britnie Patterson (Pat) and Skyler Matthews (Suzy). His grandchildren are Hayden, Preslee, Hunter, Brayden, Stetson, Adonis, Kamdyn, and Tryton. Brother Steven (Marcey), Sister Sally Neilson, Cousin Faye Walton.

The family will be holding an open house on Wednesday, December 4th from 4 pm to 8 pm. Please come share memories and celebrate Sterling. At Sterling’s Home

184 West Amy Drive, Rupert, Idaho

Our family would like to express our deepest gratitude to all our friends, family, coworkers, and neighbors who have shown such love and support to all of us. Arrangements are under the direction of Joel Heward Hansen Mortuary.