Joy Nielsen

Joy Kathleen Nielsen, 86, of Idaho Falls, passed away July 7, 2017, at Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center surrounded by her loving family. Joy was born March 30, 1931, in Idaho Falls, Idaho, to Peter John Maheras and Celia Argenta Miles Maheras. She grew up and attended schools in Idaho Falls and graduated from Idaho Falls High School. She also attended cosmetology school in Idaho Falls. She worked downtown until the birth of her daughter. On November 26, 1954, she married Floyd "Bud" Nielsen in Idaho Falls. To this union were born two daughters, Lorraine and Elizabeth. Joy and Bud made their home in Idaho Falls, Idaho, where Joy worked as a beautician. Bud passed away June 22, 2013 after 58 years of marriage. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church. She loved to sing in the choir. She had a beautiful soprano voice that could be heard from the back pew. She also participated in the women’s Agape group. Joy also enjoyed knitting, sewing, crocheting, and cooking. She was fond of going out to dinner, concerts, or shows. She loved being with people. She was very active in organizing and participating in her high school reunions. She devoted many hours to these and they always ended with her delight. Wherever she was, Joy always took advantage of striking up conversations with old friends. Joy is survived by her daughters, Lorraine Nielsen of Kenmore, WA; Elizabeth (Aaron) Bryers of Idaho Falls, ID; sisters-in-law, Dr. Mary Maheras of Billings, MT, Afton Howlett and Wanda Handy of Idaho Falls; as well as several nieces, nephews, and close friends. While she had no biological grandchildren, she was affectionately called "Grandma Joy" by many children who loved her. She was preceded in death by her father, Peter John Maheras, mother, Celia Argenta Maheras, husband, Floyd "Bud" Nielsen, sisters, Elaine Anderson and Ruth Howard, brothers, Dr. John Maheras, Dr. Ted Maheras, and Dr. Joe Maheras. The family wishes to express their appreciation to the doctors and nurses at EIRMC for their care and support. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 13, 2017, at the Idaho Falls First Presbyterian Church, 325 Elm Street. The family will visit with friends from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. Thursday at the church. Burial will be in Rose Hill Cemetery.

Funeral Services will be held