Donald Wayne Nelson

Donald Wayne Nelson was born October 17, 1930 in Alta, IA to Albert & Ellen (Sundberg) Nelson. He moved to the Rossie, IA area with his parents in 1936 and attended school in Rossie, graduating from Greenville-Rossie in 1948.

After graduation, Don started farming with his father. Don served in the Army from February 1952 until January 1954, 16 months serving in Germany. Following his honorable discharge, he returned to the farm.

Don was confirmed at Lincoln Lutheran, a country church near Royal, later he became a member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church.

Don married Joann Brink in Primghar, IA on June 5, 1965. To this union, two children were born, Janet and Roger.

Don enjoyed playing basketball in his younger years. He then cherished watching his children participate in activities, and later watching his grandchildren’s activities as well.

Don passed away on Thursday, January 29, 2026 at the age of 95. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Joann Nelson of Ruthven, formerly of Rossie/Sioux Rapids IA; 2 children, Janet (Joel) Wassom of Dickens, IA and Roger (Megan) Nelson of Sioux Rapids, IA; 2 grandchildren, Hunter Wassom of Sioux Rapids, IA and Sarah Wassom of Dickens, IA; several cousins; other relatives; and many friends.

*In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Royal, IA.