Dennis Fred Nelson

Dennis Nelson, 82, passed away the morning of December 16, 2024. He was born on October 28, 1942, in Denver, Colorado, to Swedish immigrant Ernfred Nelson (Ernfrid Nilsson) and Denver native Katherine Nelson. In 1978, Dennis moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, where he spent the rest of his life, raised his family, and founded the electrical contracting business Mojave Electric.

Alongside his son, Troy Nelson, Dennis led a long and successful career with Mojave, guiding the company as it helped construct several Las Vegas landmarks that defined the city’s iconic skyline.

Dennis lived a full and vibrant life. He enjoyed classic cars, smoking cigars, traveling the world, listening to Jimmy Buffett, and caring for his pets, including his beloved cat, Partagus. However, his greatest joy in life came from spending time with his family. He especially cherished creating memories with his loved ones in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, where he had a vacation home for nearly two decades.

Dennis is survived by his son, Troy (Julie) Nelson; his daughter, Denise (Gary) Gorichar (née Nelson); his grandchildren, Jillian Nelson (Robert Winchester III), Jessica (Taylor) Raats (née Nelson), Téa Gorichar, Bella Gorichar, and Gage Gorichar; and his great-grandchildren, Carter Raats and Madison Raats.

A visitation for Dennis will be held Friday, January 31, 2025 from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Palm Mortuary - Eastern, 7600 S Eastern Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89123. A funeral service will occur Friday, January 31, 2025 from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, 7600 S Eastern Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89123. A committal will occur Friday, January 31, 2025 at 3:00 PM at Palm Eastern Cemetery, 7600 S Eastern Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89123.

For those unable to attend the service, the family invites you to honor Dennis by enjoying a fine Cuban cigar and a Bombay Sapphire gin and tonic in his memory.