Donald Nelson

Stillwater, MN

Dr. Donald W. Nelson died peacefully on Monday, October 21st , one day short of his 95th birthday. Don's life enriched and supported so many others; his beloved wife Lois who died in 2022; his four daughters, Valerie Adelsheim, Victoria Nelson (deceased), Marilyn Nipp, and Gwendolyn Andersen, and their husbands; his six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, his sisters, Ruth, Margaret (deceased), and June (deceased) and their extended families.

Don's life and memory will be cherished by all who knew and loved him. Don lived an honorable and principled life and achieved much. He was valedictorian of his high school class in the small town of Cherry, Minnesota and went on to study at the University of Minnesota, where he earned his DDS in dentistry in 1953. Subsequently, he rose to the rank of Commander in the United States Navy, was stationed on the USS Bayfield and served both on active duty and in the reserves. After his active Navy service, Don built a long, successful career as a dentist in St. Paul, MN, where he served three generations of patients with great skill and care. During his life, he and his wife designed and supervised construction of four lovely homes, and he became known for his love of gardening. He was a great friend to many professionals throughout the Twin Cities and was known as a kind and always helpful friend and neighbor. He proudly supported the Finnish American Historical Society.

Memorial gathering will take place November 6, 3:30 - 5:30 PM at the Bradshaw Funeral Home, 2800 Curve Crest Blvd in Stillwater, MN. In lieu of flowers please make a donation in his name to your favorite charity.