Donald Ardean Nelson

Donald Ardean Nelson was born August 15, 1926 at Bryant, South Dakota, the son of Bennie and Minnie Nelson. Don served his country honorably during WWII in the United States Army. He married Iola Grotjohn on May 9, 1948 at Bryant, South Dakota and their marriage was blessed with five children; Marilyn, Janet, Larry, Craig and Lori. Don was an engineer for Great Northern Railway and the Burlington Northern Railroad for forty-one years, retiring in 1988. He was a member of the El Riad Shrine and the Masons. Don drove many children to the Shriners Hospital in Minneapolis. He also was a driver for Project Car for 15 years. Don was an active member at First Lutheran Church where he was an usher, Sunday School teacher, served on the Stewardship and Property Board, repairman and bazaar volunteer. His other community activities included the Sons of Norway, the Moose and V.F.W. Post 628. Don participated in the South Dakota Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. with his friend, Charlie. They entered the Army together in 1945. Donald was 87 years old when he died July 4, 2014 at Bethany Lutheran Home in Brandon. Grateful for having shared in his life is his wife of 66 years, Iola; four children, Marilyn Nelson (and friend, Darrell), Janet Saatkamp (Alan), Larry Nelson (Edith) and Lori Simpson (John); 7 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents; an infant sister; a brother, Gordon; and his infant son, Craig. Memorials may be directed to First Lutheran Project Car and Caring Ministry