Donald Dean Nelson, 79, passed away on December 14, 2018. A memorial service will be held 11 a.m. Friday, December 21, 2018 at McLaren’s Chapel in West Des Moines where family will greet friends from 10 a.m. until service time.
Don was born on March 25, 1939 in Cherokee, Iowa to Lewis and Ilene Nelson. He graduated from Cherokee High School in 1957 and went on to earn his teaching degree from Wayne State College in Nebraska and later a Master’s Degree from the University of Iowa. Don married Marie Anne Maurer, Madison, Nebraska, in 1960. Don spent most of his teaching career in Dubuque, Iowa, teaching Science and coaching at Washington Junior High School. He also spent part of his education career as a Principal and Driver’s Education teacher. Don enjoyed fishing and the outdoors. He had a great sense of humor and was a loyal Hawkeye and Cubs fan. Don enjoyed extensive travel with his wife Marie of 54 years to all 50 states and multiple cruises. He loved spending time with friends and family and especially cherished time with his grandchildren, whom he was so proud of.
Don is survived by his children, Kelli (Bryan) Ladd and Mr. and Mrs. Loren Nelson; grandchildren, Elena, Jaden, Evan and Kora; and brother, Ken (Karen) Nelson. He was preceded in death by his wife, Marie Anne Nelson; parents; and a sister, Dorothy Barton.
Memorial contributions can be directed to the University of Iowa Children’s Hospital in Don’s name.
