David Bertil Nilemo

Surrounded by his loving family, David Bertil Nilemo peacefully passed away on March 3, 2024 leaving behind cherished memories and a legacy of love. He was born on June 13, 1961, in Las Vegas, NV, to Rosina Marie "Petey" Nilemo and Carl Bertil Nilemo. Their Italian and Swedish heritage and special traditions were passed down to their children and became a trademark of David’s life.

David's childhood was marked by frequent relocations, with his family moving every couple of years to various places like Colorado Springs, CO, Westminster, CO, Albuquerque, NM, Denver, CO, and Chicago, IL, before ultimately settling in Littleton, CO, where he completed his high school years. His first job was at the Bunny Hutch in Lincolnwood, IL, which was a popular Chicago hotdog joint. Not surprisingly, his dedication and talent led to a quick promotion to the Assistant Manager position. After returning to Colorado, he began his career at the Holiday Inn as a dishwasher and was rapidly promoted to the Front Desk Manager, kickstarting a remarkable 49-year career in the hospitality industry. David became the General Manager of the Warwick Hotel in Denver by the time he was 23, and simultaneously completed his Bachelor of Science in Business from the University of Colorado Denver.

His calling to hospitality and hotel management perfectly aligned with his innate desire to serve. Whether in public or private settings, he effortlessly anticipated and addressed others' needs, embodying the characteristics of a true servant leader. His proactive approach, coupled with his unwavering commitment to excellence, organically propelled him into leadership positions. While he held high standards for those he mentored, he surpassed even his own lofty expectations, setting the bar impossibly high for himself. Colleagues coined the acronym WWDD (What Would David Do?) as a testament to his unparalleled influence, recognizing that emulating his approach consistently yielded the best outcomes.

His career was filled with notable accomplishments, accolades, and awards, most recently including: 2011 Operational Excellence Award, 2013 Hotel of the Year, 2016 General Manager of the Year, 2016 Food and Beverage Excellence Select Service, 2019 Opening the Hotel of the Year, and 2019 Opening Hotel RevPar Ramp Award. He was just promoted to what he considered to be “THE job” in 2023: the Regional Director of Operations. He was a mentor to many, and respected and loved by all because of his relational leadership style and willingness to pour his wisdom and insight into others.

When David met Sherry, they took life by the horns as they blended their family with children, Amanda, Josh, and Jonathan. David and Sherry went on to have two more children together, Austin and Preston, making them a loving family of 7, also known as “Nelson, party of 7.”

The life of the party, David had a way with people with his easy going, witty, and humor-filled personality. A true foodie, he loved bringing people together around the dining table, whether for grand celebrations or simple gatherings, always prioritizing Sunday steak dinners around the table as a family. Even in the absence of a formal occasion, David thrived on creating memorable moments, orchestrating elaborate feasts with ease and doubling as the resident mixologist, crafting specialty drinks for his guests. Though the guests were often friends and family, David treated each person as an honored guest, ensuring everyone felt valued and cherished. This was his gift, and though he would humbly brush off any compliments, he truly blessed everyone he knew and this will remain a cornerstone of his enduring family legacy.

An avid cruiser, he filled his life with precious memories sailing the Caribbean with his family. Many also remember him as a sharp negotiator, a lover of cars — always shopping for a new one, and for his quick-witted sarcasm. There were so many David-isms that will always remain sweet reminders of our time with him, including: seventy-eight pounds of hundred dollar bills; there ought to be a law…; pick a finger; (pause) okaaaaaay; three dogs and a tortoise; and so many more.

David is survived by Sherry, his devoted wife of 27 years, their five children: Amanda (Ben), Josh, Jonathan (Amanda), Austin, and Preston, as well as three beautiful grandchildren: Charlotte, Nash, and Knox. He is also survived by his brother, Eric (Pam), his mother-in-law, JoAnn, his sister and brother-in-laws: Suzanne (Kirk) and Joe, and his nieces and nephews: Kyle (Telise), Korey (Alyssa), Audrey, Evan, Ella, Rachel (Marco), Peter, and Andrew. We're certain that his older siblings, Bruce and Leslie, and his loving parents, were among the first to greet him in Heaven. His departure comes as a great shock and is gravely felt by his entire family and countless others in his wide network. All who knew him loved him deeply.

David and Sherry's song was "Grow Old With Me," a poignant reminder of their shared dreams and enduring love. Though David's journey ended before they could grow old together, his presence will forever remain with her. As the lyrics beautifully express,

Grow old along with me

The best is yet to be

When our time has come

We will be as one

God bless our love

God bless our love

Grow old along with me

Two branches of one tree

Face the setting sun

When the day is done

God bless our love

God bless our love

Spending our lives together

Man and wife together

World without end

World without end

Grow old along with me

Whatever fate decrees

For our love is true

God bless our love

God bless our love

Skål, dearest David, Dad, and FarFar! Until we meet again. We’ll see you on WoGoNi Island!

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” -Isaiah 41:10

His family is profoundly grateful for your support during this challenging time. In lieu of flowers, they are in the process of establishing a hospitality scholarship fund in his honor. Further details regarding where and how to contribute and about his celebration of life ceremony will be communicated soon.