Fillmore, CA
Paul Nielsen, 71, of Fillmore, CA, passed away peacefully at home on July 8, 2024.
Paul was a large character in many people’s lives, maintaining long term friendships dating back to high school. He was a gentle, generous and kind soul with a bit of mischief. Paul made a difference in people's lives. He loved to cook for friends, family, and anyone who happened to be nearby. He loved investing in and mentoring young people by giving them business experience. He was an avid skier, surfer, business owner, and music lover; his favorite song was Surf’s Up by the Beach Boys. He loved motorcycling best of all, sponsoring a race team, enjoying early morning bike rides with friends, track days, motorcycle traveling, and supporting motorcycle events. After countless miles of riding over the years, he knew every backroad west of the Mississippi. He was active in the ski and surf community, working with Val Surf for nearly two decades, and as a business owner of Waveline, a surf shop in Ventura, where he hosted competitive events and surf movie nights. Waveline was voted the Best Surf Shop in Ventura County for 9 years in a row. He was active in radio broadcasting as a disc jockey, journalist, and podcaster. He had a true interest and talent in learning and sharing people’s stories. Paul was a wonderful father, encouraging his children to try everything new, and so proud of their achievements. He and his wife, Heather, enjoyed life together, whether it be gardening, cooking, website building, podcasting, traveling, or visiting with friends. He enjoyed life in the community and was active with the Ventura Surf Club, Surfrider of Ventura County, Downtown Ventura Association, and Fillmore Film Commission. Paul’s graciousness, kindness, generosity, and good spirit will be missed.
Paul is survived by his wife, Heather of Fillmore, CA; his son, Kelly Nielsen (Anna) of Ramona, CA; daughter Leah Mizer (Craig) of Lakeside, CA; sister Christine Nielsen of Ojai, CA; brother Tony Nielsen of Anaheim CA; and grandchildren Oliver, Malena, Greyson, and Jes.
A memorial service in Paul’s honor will be held at the Bardsdale United Methodist Church, 1498 Bardsdale Avenue, Fillmore, CA on Saturday, August 24th at 2:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Bardsdale United Methodist Church or to a charity of your choice.
Arrangements are under the direction of the JOSEPH P. REARDON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICE, Ventura.