Donald Lester Nelson, loving Husband and Father died at the age of 85 on September 9, 2009 after a long fight with Parkinson's disease. He was born to Thresa and Adolph Happy Nelson February 23, 1924 in Clyde, California.

Donald is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Norma Nelson; his daughter and son-in-law Lorelee & Kirk Christensen, son and daughter-in-law Jeff & Michelle Nelson and beautiful Granddaughter Julianna Nelson. Also various nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Lyle, Bud, Kenneth & Stanley and his beloved Grandson David Juel Christensen.

Don grew up in Coulee Dam, Washington and joined the Ironworkers trade as a very young man. He enlisted in the Navy at age 19 and served as a Motor Machinist Mate Second Class in World War II. After his discharge Donald continued as an Ironworker building a reputation as an amazing, talented albeit tough Superintendent. He had a part in building the Coulee Dam, ALCAN Project in Kemmano B.C., Chief Joseph Dam, Ice Harbor and the Bonneville Dam as well as a variety of bridgework, water treatment plants and microwave towers. He worked in his trade until he was 70 years old.

Donald is best remembered as a quiet family man whose dedication to his trade was only second to his love for his family.

The family wishes to acknowledge the kindness and care he was shown at Richland Eagle Rehabilitation where he played Bingo and won a prize which was one of our last and very special memories of his smile and humor and also the staff at Guardian Angels assisted care facilities.

There will be no public ceremony and the family will gather privately to remember Donald.