Veldon Nuttall

Veldon James Nuttall was born 12 August 1921 in Pima, Graham, Arizona to James Floyd Nuttall and Alice Jane (Bryce) Nuttall. He was the third of five children. Veldon lived his entire life in the Gila Valley, residing on the same city block in Safford for more than 70 years. He passed away at his home July 28, 2010 in Safford, Graham, Arizona. After graduating from Safford High School, Veldon worked various jobs until he voluntarily joined the U.S. Army to serve his country in World War II. While home on leave, he married his sweetheart, Elena Marvine Brewer, on June 7, 1943. Five days later he was deployed for 28 months to the Pacific theater, leaving his sweetheart behind to patiently wait for his return. Shortly after Veldons return from the military, they were sealed for time and all eternity on November 4, 1945 in the Mesa Arizona Temple. On June 7, 2010 they celebrated their 67th anniversary. In about 1948, Veldon and his father were the original founders of Nuttalls Towing which is still being operated today by Veldons son. In addition to operating his towing business, he worked at the Safford Post Office, retiring in 1981. He served as a Safford City Councilman from 1976 to 1981. Important to Veldon was his membership in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints where he served over 25 years as a ward clerk for many different bishops. He and his wife, Marvine, faithfully served for 2 1/2 years as temple workers in the Mesa Arizona Temple. Veldon will be remembered for his quick wit and good sense of humor. His close friends were always uplifted by his joking and kidding around. Many people knew him as the Big Nutt. He never knew a stranger and was always willing to help others. He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, two sisters, and one grandson. Veldon is survived by his wife, Marvine; four children--Jane (Robert) Huffenberger, James (Tamra) Nuttall, Floyd (Doni) Nuttall, and Marvin (DawnNell) Nuttall; twelve grandchildren; three great grandchildren; 1 sister, Nancy; and numerous nephews and nieces. Funeral services will be conducted Wednesday, August 4, 2010, at 11:00 am in the Solomon LDS Chapel, with viewing beginning at 9:00 am. Interment will be in the Safford Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please contribute to a local charity of your choosing to benefit the local community.