Jordan Ted Nielson

Jordan Ted Nielson was born into a family of hard workers and passionate athletes on February 3, 1988. From the beginning he was constantly on the move with his sights set on winning, and it didn’t take long for his parents to realize he’d never meet a sport he didn’t like. His athletic pursuits were a consistent feature in his life and extended from football and basketball to disc golf, lacrosse, rock climbing, wakeboarding, and pickleball. You name it, Jordan likely did it. His humble nature, disinterest in praise, and unique lack of trash-talking skills belied his fierce competitiveness, which only became apparent during a game—board games included. Jordan enjoyed being on a team and wouldn’t shy away from joining one, even if it meant learning an entirely new sport.

His willingness to try new things and push boundaries was a mentality that stuck with him into adulthood. It applied to everything from exploring the outdoors and improving the environment to tasting food and examining philosophical ideas, but typically stopped short of giving hugs. If an opportunity arose to step in and improve a situation or help someone, Jordan was there with a tool in hand and a great idea.

For two years he served a mission to Cameroon, Africa, for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In typical fashion, Jordan worked hard and humbly with a grin on his face. His love for the people he met during that experience left a lasting impression on his heart and he looked forward to visiting them again. When he and Ali ventured to Cameroon years later, he was thrilled to introduce her to the beautiful country, culture, and people he called friends (particularly Jordan Ted, a small boy named after him).As an aspiring engineer, Jordan attended Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology in Indiana where he played collegiate football and basketball. He received a bachelor’s and master’s degree from Rose-Hulman, along with an extensive branded wardrobe, and ultimately became what Jordan jokingly called a “fake doctor” when he earned his PhD in mechanical engineering from the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). As an engineer he led and inspired others with his intelligence and ability to build his ideas into existence. His quick, inquisitive mind and intense passion for research and development were invaluable to his teams at the Southwest Research Institute.

Of his many hobbies and achievements, his family was by far what brought him the most joy (although owning a Tesla was definitely in the top five). While living in Indiana he met the love of his life, Alicia “Ali” Lindsey, and they were married on August 10, 2013. For just shy of a decade, Jordan pursued his personal, educational, and family passions alongside Ali while they created memories, fostered children, and expanded their family together. Jordan raised JJ and Kiki with genuine kindness, Zen-level patience, and unparalleled enthusiasm. He was most often seen urging the kids to put their shoes on because it was time to leave for an outdoor adventure. Through his actions, Jordan made it abundantly clear that being JJ and Kiki’s dad was the most fulfilling aspect of his life every day.On April 17, 2023, our incredible husband, father, son, and brother progressed from this earth life into the company of his heavenly father.

We are deeply grateful to the communities that supported and embraced Jordan throughout the years: the Syracuse community where he grew up, his Rose-Hulman family, the Southwest Research Institute team, and the many friends in his new home of San Antonio, Texas. We are also extremely appreciative of the amazing efforts and care he received from the healthcare teams at Methodist Hospital in San Antonio and the Texas Organ Sharing Alliance (TOSA).

Jordan is survived by his wife, Ali, and their two beautiful children, JJ (5) and Kiki (3); parents Kim and Kurt Nielson; siblings Ally Hill, Andrew & Kamala Nielson, Jamison & Kenzie Nielson, Karson & Emery Nielson, and Kameron Nielson; his in-laws Tad & Midori Lindsey and Alex & Manda Lindsey; five nieces and nephews, and extended family members. Most importantly for Jordan, he’s been reunited with those he loved dearly, including his grandfather and role model, Melvin, and his fiercest teammate and brother-in-law, Wes.

We look forward to celebrating Jordan with you in both Utah and Texas. Family and friends may join us.

VISITATIONSUNDAY, APRIL 23, 20236:00 PM – 8:00 PMSYRACUSE BLUFF CHAPEL2339 WEST 1900 SOUTHSYRACUSE, UT 84075

OPEN HOUSEMONDAY, APRIL 24, 202310:00 AMSYRACUSE BLUFF2339 WEST 1900 SOUTHSYRACUSE. UT 84075

FUNERAL SERVICEMONDAY, APRIL 24, 202311:00 AMSYRACUSE BLUFF2339 WEST 1900 SOUTHSYRACUSE, UT 84075

Texas family and friends may join us in celebration on:

CELEBRATION OF LIFESATURDAY, APRIL 29, 20235:00 PM – 7:00 PMLDS CHAPEL7420 HUEBNER RDLEON VALLEY, TX 78240

FUNERAL SERVICESUNDAY, APRIL 30, 202310:00 AM – 12:00PMPORTER LORING MORTUARY WEST1710 WEST LOOP 1604 NORTHSAN ANTONIO, TX 78251Located near Sea World

To view the live stream of Jordan's service, please click here.