Arthur "Ed" Nilson

Arthur Edward (“Ed11 ) Nilson passed away on August 28, 2022 surrounded by family after a battle with prostate cancer. An avid hiker and poet, Ed loved nature, spending time with his family, and debating theology and politics with friends.
Ed was born on his family’s farm on August 1, 1934 in Marquette, to Grace (Lindburg) and Arthur Nilson. He grew up with his two younger brothers, Charles and Bruce, on a rural farm without electricity or running water. He fondly remembered gardening with his mom, milking cows every morning with his brothers, and spending countless hours with his Uncle Charlie, who was like a second father to him.
Ed attended a one room schoolhouse, nicknamed Pokey Hoodle. He graduated from high school at the age of 16, and attended the University of Nebraska as a Regents Scholar. He loved his time there and earned a BA in English and Classics.
Ed went on to obtain a Master of Divinity in Theology and PH.D. in Psychology from Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California. He worked as a clinical psychologist for the State of California at Lanterman Development Center, while also maintaining a private counseling practice. As a psychologist at Lanterman, he advocated for his clients, at one point travelling to Sacramento to speak to the state legislature on behalf of the patient’s union. Ed married Sheri in 1975 and they bought their dream house in the mountains of Monrovia, California, where they raised their three children, Erik, Sarah, and Emily. Ed loved to garden and spent much of his time in the yard. You could often find him lying in the hammock under his beloved silk tree after a hike or hours of gardening.
In 1998, upon the birth of his first grandchild, Ed discovered the joy of being a Grandparent. Affectionately called “Papa11 by his grandchildren, he could often be seen around Monrovia hiking or enjoying a favorite restaurant with grandchildren.
Ed’s faith in God was always at the forefront of his life. In his last days, Ed spoke frequently about looking forward to being united in heaven with his good friends and family members who had passed before him. Ed’s commitment to family, his vast knowledge, and loving nature will be celebrated and greatly missed.
Ed is survived by his wife Sheri; their children Erik, Sarah (Vitaly) and Emily (Josh); beloved grandchildren Kaylei, Madelyn, Alexander, Katerina, and Dmitry; his brothers Charles and Bruce, and many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life was held in Monrovia at Mountainside Communion Church on Sept. 17, 2022. Interment will be at George Western Cemetery, Marquette, at a later date.