Carter Nielson Stephens, or “Niel” as he was known to most, passed away on October 22, 2023, at Crook County Memorial Hospital in Sundance, WY at the age of 88.
Niel was born on November 9, 1934 in Spearfish SD to L.D. and AnnaBelle (Nielsen) Stephens. He was raised with his younger brother, Pete, in Alva, WY. Their mother taught at various rural schools, so that is where Niel got his early education. He went on to graduate from Hulett High School.
In 1957 he was drafted into the Army. When his service ended in 1959, he gained employment with Bell and Mooney Trucking. There he met and married Judy Bell. The couple completed the family with their children Gary, Debbie and Deana. Throughout the years Niel worked as a truck driver and a skilled heavy equipment operator. Some of the county roads were built by Niel while working for Campbell County Road and Bridge. He hauled equipment for KG Construction in Gillette. Niel operated a track hoe for his brother Pete’s company, Wind River Constructors, in Casper, WY. He was also employed as a superintendent by JD Welsh and Associates in Reno, Nevada, and Hettinger Welding in Gillette, WY, as a blade operator. After retirement, he enjoyed spending time with his family (especially joking with his grandchildren) and going to Deadwood, SD to play 3 card poker.
Niel was proceeded in death by his parents; brother, Pete; and half-brother, Kermit Stephens. He is survived by his wife, Judy; children, Gary (Kathy), Debbie, and Deana; grandchildren and great-grandchildren; half-brother, Charles Stephens; nieces and nephews.
No memorial service will be held. A private burial is planned at a later date.
Friends may sign his online guestbook at blackhillsfuneralhome.com.
