Randall Nielsen

NORTH CANAAN — Randall Nielsen, 86, passed away July 17, 2011, at Geer Nursing and Rehabilitation Center after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. Randy was born June 28, 1925, in Brooklyn, N.Y., the son of the late Ragna B. and Frank Meidle Nielsen.He served in World War II as a carpenter’s mate third class with the 127th Navy Seabees from 1943 to 1946, receiving the American Theater, Asiatic Pacific, Philippine Liberation and Victory medals. Randy was employed for many years at the Presbyterian Camp and Conference Center as a manager. He also worked at Housatonic Valley Regional High School as a custodian until he retired in 1982. Randy enjoyed keeping busy doing carpentry and electrical projects. He was an avid music lover and had a great sense of humor. Randy is survived by his wife and best friend, Sylvia, who had been his primary caregiver for the last few years before he moved to Geer a few weeks ago. He is also survived by a son, David Nielsen of Carmel, N.Y.; three daughters, Susan Sloan of St. Inigoe’s, Md., Barbara Gustafson of North Canaan and Ginger Nielsen-Reid of Salisbury; 10 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; a nephew and two nieces. Randy was predeceased by a sister, Evelyn Giordano of Setauket, N.Y.In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Fisher House Foundation, 111 Rockville Pike, Suite 420, Rockville, MD 20850-5168 or www.Fisherhouse.org. Fisher House is an organization that helps families of wounded veterans. A private ceremony will take place at the family’s convenience. There are no calling hours. Arrangements are under the care of the Newkirk-Palmer Funeral Home in North Canaan.

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