Donald Austin Nelson

Donald Austin Nelson, 94, peacefully passed away to be with his Heavenly Father and loved ones on Thursday, July 3, 2014. He was born on December 4, 1919 in Ambridge, PA to Laura and Swen Nelson. He was a retired Lt. Colonel with the US Air Force reserves. In 1942 he trained as a bombardier and graduated September 26, 1942 as 2nd Lt. in the Air Corps Air Force and proudly served his country in WWII. Donald received the Campaign Medal with 4 Bronze Service Stars, Distinguished Flying Cross, the Purple Heart and the Distinguished Unit Citation Badge while serving his country. He lived in Jacksonville most of his life and was an active member of Riverside Presbyterian Church for 56 years. He was also a member of the Morocco Shrine for 51 years. He is remember as a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend, whose quiet influence left a footprint on our hearts. He was preceded in death (7/3/2006) by his wife of 61 years, Marijane Nelson, his parents, and two brothers Alvin Nelson and Paul Nelson. He is survived by his daughter Marlee Stockton Soderstrom, grandchildren Lee Stockton and Austin Stockton, great-grandchildren Eric Fromme, Lexie Stec and Graysen Stockton and nephew Donald (Rose) James Nelson. Arrangements under the care of Hardage-Giddens Town & Country Funeral Home, 7242 Normandy Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32205. The family will receive friends for visitation on Tuesday, July 8, 2014 from 1:00-1:30pm in the chapel. A graveside service will immediately follow at 2:00pm at Riverside Memorial Park. Dr. Dwight Bayley officiating. If desired, memorials may be made to Riverside Presbyterian Church.