Donald Irvin “Don” Nelson, 77, most recently of Dacono, Colorado, passed away on March 1, 2024.

Don was born on March 28, 1946, in Grand Island, to John O.A. and Doris Nelson. He was a 1964 graduate of Boelus High School and went on to graduate from auto mechanic’s school in St. Louis.

Don married Cheryl Neville on November 28, 1970, and welcomed two children to the family, Jeff and Holly. During his time with Cheryl, he developed a strong bond with the Neville family that endured until his final days.

Don spent his early years working as a farmer and mechanic on the family farm outside of Boelus. He enjoyed spending time and laughing with his friends and family in “Don’s Garage.” His reputation as the jackof- all-trades who could fix anything is still well known around Central Nebraska.

Don was then married to Betty Timmons on March 2, 2005. Don and Betty soon moved to Houston and Galveston, Texas, where he enjoyed spending time on the ocean having fun with the Timmons family. They traveled the world and created great memories until Betty’s passing in 2011.

Don married Sarah Walters on July 10, 2016, and spent his final years with her and his son Jeff’s family in Colorado. He especially enjoyed spending time with friends in Platteville and watching Nebraska The Phonograph-Herald | March 20, 2024

football games with his family.

Don is survived by his wife, Sarah; his children, Holly Brazle (Luk) and Jeff and Tammy Nelson; his grandchildren, Gideon Brazle, Isaac Brazle, Everson Nelson, and Brooklyn Nelson; and his siblings, Olaf Nelson, John Nelson, Rich Nelson, and Louise Mohanna.

He is preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Carl; his second wife, Betty; and close Nelson family friend, Martin Fisher.

A celebration of life was held on March 9, 2024 at Carroll-Lewellen Funeral Home in Longmont, Colorado.