OBITUARY
Walter Nilsen
July 21, 1933 – July 29, 2017
Walter Nilsen, 84 of Plano, Texas passed away on July 29, 2017. Walter was born on July 21, 1933 in New York City, New York to Nils and Aagot Nilsen. Walt attended the University of Colorado where he earned a Bachelors degree in Music. Walt had a beloved singing voice. In his youth its power and beauty could have rivaled Pavarotti. Even as he got older he was still able to share this gift with friends and church, and it was a blessing for all those around him. Walt was retired from the Collin County Community College District where he was the Director of Facilities, Plant and Construction. He oversaw construction of multiple Collin County Community College campuses. He was a member of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America from 1963-1971. Walt was proud to be Norwegian. His parents immigrated from Norway in the 1920’s, part of the great wave that came through Ellis Island during that period of our countries history. Everyone he met got to hear his love for his heritage. Walt enjoyed singing, visiting with his Grandchildren, Traveling, Gaming, and the Horses. His wife, Rebecca was everything to him. His love for his family, his children and grandchildren was limitless. They brought him great joy and each one will miss him in their own way. Walt is survived by his wife, Rebecca; Children, David, Teri Isaacson (Kris), Alicia Holtzhausen (Xavier), Ashley Thompson (Blake); Sister, Edie Peterson (Rick); Grandchildren, Lauren, Tyler and Jennifer Isaacson, Lily and Julia Evans, Taylor and Sophie Heyen, Andre Holtzhausen, Kailey Thompson, Zack Weinman, Mackenzie and Clayton Thompson. Walt is preceded in death by his parents, Nils and Aagot Nilsen. A Memorial Service will be held on August 13, 2017 at 2:00pm at the Disciples Christian Church, 2001 Independence Pkwy, Plano, TX 75075. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Disciples Christian Church Music Program in Walter's name.
Arrangements under the direction of Ted Dickey Funeral Home, Plano, TX.
Services
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Memorial Service
Sunday, August 13, 2017
Memories
Walter Nilsen
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ADD A MEMORYJack Dube
December 3, 2018
I am saddened to read of the passing of Mr. Nilsen. I'll always remember the energy and vibrance by which he conducted the Washington Jr. High School chorus and music program and its impact it has made on my appreciation for music. God rest this gentle giant of a man.
Wayne and Teresa
October 25, 2017
Dear Rebecca and family, just googling names of those who meant something to us in the past, and came upon Walt's name. So sad to see that he has passed, he truly was a second father to Wayne during years in Oregon. Bless you all and may God give you comfort. Come see us, we would love to have you.
David R Galvan
August 22, 2017
I was deeply saddened by the news of Mr. Nielsen's passing. My heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Rest In Peace Sir.
Carie Dippel
August 10, 2017
Rebecca and all of Walt's family, thank you for sharing your husband, father, uncle, grandfather, and friend with all of us. Walt lit up a room as soon as he walked in! He was such a wonderful man and I am fortunate to have been able to know him. His personality and smile is one I will not forget! I hope you are able to find peace in knowing what a wonderful man he truly was. Thank you again!
Carie Dippel
August 10, 2017
Rebecca and all of Walt's family, thank you for sharing your husband, father, uncle, grandfather, and friend with all of us. Walt lit up a room as soon as he walked in! He was such a wonderful man and I am fortunate to have been able to know him. His personality and smile is one I will not forget! I hope you are able to find peace in knowing what a wonderful man he truly was. Thank you again!
Carie Dippel
August 10, 2017
Rebecca and all of Walt's family, thank you for sharing your husband, father, uncle, grandfather, and friend with all of us. Walt lit up a room as soon as he walked in! He was such a wonderful man and I am fortunate to have been able to know him. His personality and smile is one I will not forget! I hope you are able to find peace in knowing what a wonderful man he truly was. Thank you again!
Carie Dippel
August 10, 2017
Rebecca and all of Walt's family, thank you for sharing your husband, father, uncle, grandfather, and friend with all of us. Walt lit up a room as soon as he walked in! He was such a wonderful man and I am fortunate to have been able to know him. His personality and smile is one I will not forget! I hope you are able to find peace in knowing what a wonderful man he truly was. Thank you again!
Andrea Cockrell
August 7, 2017
On behalf of all the staff and students at Jackson Elementary, we want you to know how lucky we were to have Walt as our crossing guard for so many years. The community adored him and we could always count on him to keep our precious kids safe as they left school to return home. Bless you during this time.
Andrea Cockrell, Principal, Jackson Elementary
Steve Hardy
August 2, 2017
Rebecca,
I was so sorry to hear of Walt's passing. Walt made a big difference in not only the facilities at Collin College but in the lives of people as well, including mine. May you always be blessed with wonderful memories of your life together.
Shirley and Mike Harmon
August 2, 2017
Rebecca and Family,
Walt was such a unique person, larger than life, full of wonderful stories from his experiences, and with the voice of an Irish angel. Memories of Walt are filling our hearts as we reminiscence on good times past. You are in our thoughts and prayers; may God bless and keep you.
Warmest regards,
Doug Willis
July 31, 2017
Rebecca,
Sheri and I are so sorry for Walt's passing. I am so glad you had the last several months with him since you retired. I know those times are very special and precious to you. All of our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.