Donald E. Nellessen passed away peacefully on Friday, February 5th, 2021 at his home in Sun City, Arizona. He was born in Chicago, Illinois on May 30th, 1936. Don was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Edward Nellessen, as well as his sister Delores (Nellessen) Brice.
Don grew up in Skokie, Illinois and married his high school sweetheart, Catherine B. Niblett and enjoyed 65 ½ years together. Devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, they lived in Skokie, Illinois for four years where he worked as a printer. Don and Catherine moved to Arlington Heights, Illinois and he joined the Skokie Fire Department in 1960 as a 3rd generation firefighter. While still on full time Skokie Fire Department he became training officer for the Buffalo Grove Volunteer Fire Department. He encouraged many of his friends on Buffalo Grove to take tests for other Fire Departments. Don loved his Fire Department and was a brother to everyone. He retired from Skokie Fire Department after 24 ½ years and worked for Slide Products in Wheeling, Illinois until he moved to Sun City, Arizona to continue playing his favorite sport, golf. He was loved by his “Golf Buddies” and spent lots of fun times on the courses.
Don was loved and respected by everyone that was lucky enough to have known him. He was very involved with his church (Spirit of Hope UMC) as a trustee, usher and wherever he was needed to serve. Don is survived by his wife, Catherine, his sister Judy (Jim) his brother Edward (Kay), his four sons John (Lonell), Gerald (Julie), Dave (Stacy), and Daniel (Diana). Don and Catherine are blessed to have 13 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren, along with many nieces, nephews, and great/great-great nieces and nephews.
Don will be truly be missed and his loss is felt by a multitude of family and friends across the country.
