The University of Utah community mourns the loss of Russell M. Nelson, a respected medical pioneer and leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, who passed away on September 27, 2025. At 100 years old, he was known for his groundbreaking work in heart surgery and for being the oldest president in the church’s history.
Nelson’s journey began at the University of Utah, where he graduated in 1945 and later earned his medical degree. His thirst for knowledge took him to the University of Minnesota, where he participated in developing the heart-lung machine, crucial for the first human open-heart surgery. This innovation propelled his career forward, making him Utah’s first cardiac surgeon to perform open-heart surgeries using this technology.
During his almost 20 years at the University of Utah’s School of Medicine, he led the cardiothoracic program. He not only saved countless lives but also trained generations of doctors. His dedication to medicine didn’t stop there; in 1980, he ventured to Shandong, China, to teach local surgeons the intricacies of open-heart surgery. Today, techniques he introduced allow over 2,000 heart surgeries to occur annually in the region, showcasing his enduring impact.
University of Utah President Taylor R. Randall expressed heartfelt condolences, highlighting Nelson’s life as a symbol of innovation and compassion. Randall noted that Nelson’s teachings about the worth of every individual resonate deeply in today’s world, especially in such turbulent times.
Bob Carter, M.D., from the University of Utah Health, shared that Nelson’s commitment to science and patient care deeply influenced many aspiring doctors. For him, Nelson set a high bar, showing that medical education is about nurturing empathetic healers who make a difference in people’s lives.
In recognition of his medical accomplishments, the University honored him with the Dr. Russell M. Nelson and Dantzel W. Nelson Presidential Chair in Cardiothoracic Surgery in 2018. His legacy continued through donations of his medical papers and surgical records to the university’s library, ensuring future students benefit from his knowledge.
Social media reactions to the news of Nelson’s passing have poured in, with many expressing gratitude for his contributions to medicine and faith. His message of hope and service continues to inspire many worldwide, reinforcing the importance of community and compassion. In a 2013 address, he reminded young adults not to shy away from their dreams, saying, “There is no shortcut to excellence.”
Nelson’s influence will be felt for generations, leaving behind a legacy of healing both the body and spirit. His work exemplifies how one person’s dedication can create waves of change, inspiring countless others to follow in their footsteps.
For more about the incredible life of Russell M. Nelson, you can check out this (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EUmM3aD_F5c).
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The University of Utah, UofU, The U, Honoring medical trailblazer and global faith leader Russell M. Nelson – @theU
