02/09/2026
Sonia Della Regina Nielsen
Salina, Utah- On February 4th, 2026 after enduring a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer, Sonia Nielsen passed away peacefully at her home. She will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her caring heart, and the way she loved so deeply.
Sonia was born on November 28th, 1955 in Mestre, Italy to Ivana and Ubaldino Della Regina. Her childhood was shaped by the beauty of Italy, especially Venice, where she grew up by the water surrounded by a large and lively family. Those early years were rich with tradition, faith, and togetherness. Sonia eventually moved to Germany, where she married Ronald Nielsen on November 11, 2004. Together, they had one daughter.
After moving to America in January 2008, Sonia worked at JJWD for nearly 20 years. She never stopped moving and stayed active well into her later years, only stepping away from work when she was diagnosed with cancer. Her house was always full of festive decorations, and she delighted in cooking, especially her famous tortellini. Sonia had a lifelong love for animals, and her pets were a cherished part of her life. She loved cats so much that any stray that crossed her path was guaranteed a snack—and sometimes a full meal. She even persuaded her husband to buy a high-end outdoor cat house so the cats would have a cozy spot to sleep—a move that perfectly showed her love for every four-legged friend.
Sonia loved being outside and was rarely sitting still. Whether she was riding passenger on her motorcycle or zipping around town on her Razor, she could always be spotted enjoying the wind in her hair. She loved visiting places like Moab, the Grand Canyon, and other national parks—and never left without picking up a postcard or fridge magnet to remember the trip. She also had a green thumb and a big love for flowers. Every year she planted a garden, and sunflowers were always a must. Her yard and home were full of blooms and plants.
Her heart was as big as her spirit. She was the most loving wife and mother, always putting her family first and giving so much to everyone around her. Her sweetness, generosity, and unwavering care touched all who knew her, and her family and friends will always remember the depth of her love.
Sonia is survived by her husband, Ronald Nielsen; her daughters, Shelly Nielsen and Elettra Della Regina; her son, Marco Della Regina; her granddaughter, Aurora, daughter of Elettra; and her beloved dog, Bianca. She is preceded in death by her parents; Ivana and Ubaldino Della Regina.
Graveside services for Sonia will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, February 14th in Pioneer Cemetery in Salina, Utah. The family warmly invites all who were touched by Sonia’s life and who loved her to join them in honoring her memory.
The family wishes to express their heartfelt thanks to Zions Way Hospice for the love and care shown in her final days. Nurse Natalie was kind, attentive, and compassionate, bringing comfort to the family during a difficult time. Nurse Kennedy came to their home and lovingly cut their mother’s hair, helping her feel beautiful and cared for. Nurse Courtney was always present, day and night, ready to assist as needs arose. Their combined dedication, warmth, and compassion made Sonia’s final days peaceful and full of dignity, and the family remains deeply grateful for their support. The family also wishes to thank her many friends, whose love, kindness, and friendship filled her life with joy and warmth.
Her family, along with all who knew her, will carry her memory and the warmth she shared throughout her life forever.
Services under the care of Springer Turner Funeral Homes of Richfield and Salina.
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