Leslie Gerald Nash

Lt. Col. (Retired) Leslie G. “Les” Nash, devoted husband, brother, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and uncle passed away on November 18, 2015 surrounded by his family, for whom he was the proud and beloved patriarch. Les suffered a sudden decline after a traumatic fall. He will be remembered for having lived a long, happy, exemplary life, highlighted by an idyllic marriage, deep religious faith, distinguished military service and the moral integrity he brought to everyday existence.

Les was born November 11, 1929 in Salt Lake City, Utah to Camille J. and Gerald S. Nash. He graduated from East High School in 1947 and the University of Utah in 1951; he earned a Master’s in Education from Troy State University in 1968. Les served in the US Air Force from 1951 to 1971, including a tour of duty during the Korean War, tenure as instructor at the Officer Training School, and a stint as a squadron commander. His military career took him across the country and around the world, with two extended assignments in Japan. Les was a dedicated member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Though he served in many capacities, including as Branch President and in two District Presidencies, his favorite calling was as teacher of Gospel Doctrine classes. He was a rigorous scholar of LDS church scripture and history.

Les married Lucille Virginia “Ginny” Scott in 1954, in a real-life instance of “love at first sight” six weeks after meeting, in Denver, Colorado. They were sealed in the Salt Lake Temple in 1963. Les is survived by his cherished wife, his brother John, seven children—Michelle (husband Daryl), Michael, Janet, Adam (wife Toby), Judy (husband Garth), Joseph (wife Stephanie), David (wife Liza)—23 grandchildren and 23 great-grandchildren. The spouses and companions of Les’s entire lineage also occupy revered places in his family tree.

Les’s wife, children and extended family were the center of his life. Les often remarked that he married his best friend, and he treasured Ginny’s companionship above all else. Frequent family gatherings to mark holidays and special occasions, often sprawling and boisterous affairs featuring dozens of relatives and close friends, were eagerly anticipated and fondly recollected celebrations of life and love. Les recently observed that while some families are made up of very similar types of people, “our family is a cast of unique characters” who share strong common bonds. Les reveled in that diversity and made special connections to each family member in successive generations, and every one who came into his circle felt his respect and affection.

Les enjoyed travel, relished a great meal, was an avid photographer, had a special interest in military history, and delighted in collecting movies and television programs. His exceptional memory contributed to a remarkable ability to recount stories in astonishing detail. Les had a keen intellect and could hold his own in any discussion because he possessed knowledge and insight about a wide variety of subjects. However, more than anything else, Les will remain in the hearts of so many he encountered because of the humanity, understanding and compassion he extended to all. No one who ever had a conversation with Les could miss his thoughtfulness, consideration and humility. Les practiced what he preached.

Family and friends are invited to a viewing at Russon Brothers–Farmington, 1941 North Main Street, Farmington on Monday, November 23 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, November 24 at the Oakridge Ward LDS Chapel, 2230 South 350 East, Kaysville. A viewing from 10:00 to 10:45 am will precede the funeral at the chapel. Interment will be at Utah Veterans Memorial Cemetery.