Stanley Nielson

Stanley E. Nielson, 86, passed away peacefully on September 8, 2025, at Woodlake Assisted Living in Lakewood, Colorado.

Born on January 9, 1939, in Big Springs, Nebraska, Stan was the son of Don and Ruth (Haney) Nielson. He was raised on the family ranch north of Arthur, Nebraska, where he spent his formative years.

A 1956 graduate of Arthur County High School, Stan went on to attend Chadron State College. In 1959, he married Leola Aufdengarten. Together, they began their married life ranching with Stan’s parents until 1968, when the family moved to Lincoln, Nebraska. There, Stan earned a master’s degree in microbiology from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln.

In 1974, the Nielsons relocated to Lakewood, Colorado, where Stan conducted cancer research at the University of Colorado Medical Center. In 1985, he transitioned to business ownership, founding Colorado Analytical Laboratory with his sons Shane and Stuart. Many of his grandchildren worked there during the summers where they enjoyed being part of the family business. Stan continued applying his expertise as a chemist until his retirement in 2008.

Stan had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and loved spending time with family. His many hobbies included hiking in the mountains, cooking, photography, gardening, and off-road adventures exploring the Colorado backcountry.

He is survived by his children: Shane (Patti) Nielson of Lakewood, Colorado; Stacy (Kerry) Ross of Conifer, Colorado; and Stuart (Kim) Nielson of Lakewood, Colorado. He is also survived by his sister, Mary McConnell of Hurst, Texas; seven grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Stan was preceded in death by his first wife, Leola, in 1984; two sons, Steve (1966) and Syd (1975); and his second wife, Patricia, in 2015.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Arthur County Cemetery in Arthur, Nebraska. The service will be officiated by Rev. Blake Wilkes.

Condolences may be left by going to www.drauckerfh.com

Draucker Funeral Home has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.