Obituary

Michael James Neilson
October 1, 1955 – March 13, 2023

Michael James Neilson passed away at the age of 67 on March 13th, 2023 in Aliso Viejo, California, after battling Alzheimer’s disease for more than 7 years. He was born in Wilmington, Delaware on October 1st, 1955, to Elizabeth (Betty) Ann Apgar and George Peabody Neilson, Jr.

Michael was a loving, devoted, hilarious, and charming father, brother, uncle, friend, and leader and will be greatly missed. He is preceded in death by his mother, Betty, and father, George. Surviving family members include his daughter, Stefanie Neilson; son, David (Brandon) Neilson; brother, Steven (Nancy) Neilson; sister, Kathleen (Barbara) Neilson; nephews, Michael (Sarah) Neilson and Ian (Megan) Neilson; his devoted partner, Diane Trueblood; and long-time friend who was like a brother, Joe (Patty) Pfanzelter.

Upon graduation from Brandywine High School, Michael entered the United States Military Academy Preparatory School, and shortly thereafter attended West Point, graduating in 1978. He went on to serve in the military for 23 years, including a tour in Iraq & Kuwait in 2003, and retired as a Colonel in 2005. His civilian career was focused on Human Resource Management, spanning a variety of companies including Quaker/PepsiCo, Raytheon, HRC ManorCare, and InterContinental Hotels Group.

Michael loved spending time at any beach, enjoying a craft beer, and watching any and every sporting event. His shining smile was matched by his bright blue eyes that lit up every room he walked in and accompanied by his lovable and funny personality.

He spent his last few years in the Memory Care Unit at Belmont Village Senior Living in Aliso Viejo, California. We are especially thankful for the staff and PALs that cared for Michael in his final years.

A memorial service is being planned at Arlington National Cemetery. Information will be shared with close family and friends when details are finalized. We ask that donations in Michael’s memory be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, through this link.