Donald Ray Nelson

Donald Ray Nelson, age 95, went to be with his Lord and Savior Thursday, December 29, 2022. Donald was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Kay Nelson; parents Morris “Ivan” and Lula Nelson. He will be lovingly remembered by his second wife, Lola Smith; children Rodney Nelson, Pamela Lahuis, and Carl and Cynthia (Nelson) Bossenbroek; his “adopted son,” Bernie Groendyk; grandchildren Ferrell and Tammy (Herrema) Clark, Shane and Paige Herrema, Chad Herrema, Todd Herrema, Clint and Andrea Herrema, Davin Nelson, Christopher Nelson, Ryan and Cortney (Mulder) VanVels, Andrew and Stacey (Mulder) Van Eck, Jeremy and Megan (Mulder) Kwant; 19 great-grandchildren, with one more expected; one great-great-grandchild, with one more expected; many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Donald (Donny) was born January 31, 1927 in Morley, MI as an only child, but had many aunts and cousins with whom to play. He started school in Grand Rapids, MI and enlisted in the Navy at the age of 17, finishing high school after WWII. During his time in the Navy he would entertain the troops on board ship by boxing, and after the war he continued with Golden Gloves being a three-year champion. Donald began a 40 year career at Steelcase and married Barbara Bloch in 1949. Donald’s passion for motorcycle riding began after he purchased his first Harley; he and Barbara were members of the Night Hawk Riders motorcycle club. Donald was also passionate about hunting (owning many bird dogs) pheasant, rabbit, deer, with bow and gun, passing on this legacy to his grandsons. His favorite place to spend time was at his cabin on the Manistee River. Donald deeply loved his family and grandkids and rarely missed a sporting event, birthday celebration, or any reason to step in and help. He was a kid at heart, yet wise, and taught his family so many valuable lessons over fun times spent together. He impacted many and will be greatly missed.

The family will greet relatives and friends 10 a.m. Wednesday, January 4, 2023, with a Celebration of Life immediately following 11 a.m. at Cook Memorial Chapel (East building), 4235 Prairie St. SW, Grandville, MI 49418. In honor of Donald, contributions may be made to the Sunset Legacy Foundation. Interment will be at Rosedale Memorial Park. The family welcomes memories and messages in their guest book online at www.cookcaresgrandville.com.