Kenneth Larry Nelson

     Kenneth Larry Nelson, 58, a resident of Gooding, passed away on Friday, February 21, 2020 at his home surrounded by his loving family.

     Kenneth was born on November 30, 1961 in Farmington, New Mexico to Jerald Thomas “JT” and Anita Gwen Nelson.  He was raised and went to school in Moab, Utah.

     After completing school, Kenneth started working construction with his friend – John “Red” Johnston in Moab and from that friendship Kenneth met Kay Smith and her two sons – Jeromy Lynn Smith and Jared Allen Smith.  On March 22, 1987 Kenneth and Kay married and he became the boy’s dad. 

     In April 1987, after gaining employment with Basterrechea Trucking, Kenneth moved his new family to Gooding where together they raised their boys.  Kenneth began working for Gnesa Excavating on March 14, 1996.  He loved his job there and enjoyed working to provide for his family.

     Kenneth and Kay later divorced, but he continued to be a great father and papa to his grandchildren.  Besides spending time with his family, Kenneth also enjoyed going to his grandchildren’s sporting events, fishing and camping.

     Kenneth was preceded in death by his father – JT Nelson; brother – Clifford Ray Nelson; nephew – Justin Lake Nelson; and his paternal and maternal grandparents.

     Kenneth is survived by: his mother – Anita Nelson of New Mexico; his son – Jeromy (Karen) Smith and grandsons – Trevor and Austin Smith of Gooding; his son – Jared (Amber) Smith and granddaughters – Brynlea and Brooklyn Smith (and baby girl to be born in May) of Boise; his brothers – Tommy Nelson, Phillip Nelson and Joe Nelson of New Mexico; his sister – Cindy Mays of Boise; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, and his best friend and brother-in-law – Glen Mays.

     Kenneth’s love for his family and his feisty personality will be greatly missed.  We love you pops.

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