Donald Nelson

Donald Harold Nelson

DES MOINES - Donald Harold Nelson. January 11, 1943 - December 15, 2025

Donald Harold Nelson passed away peacefully on December 15, 2025, surrounded by love. A graduate of East High School, Don retired from Firestone and was the proud owner of the Electric Washboard. He had a lifelong passion for motorcycles-flat track racing, enduros, and long road trips with his riding buddies-and he proudly taught his children to ride. His grand- children continue that legacy, whether through motocross racing or simply riding in the woods.

Don's timeless advice to those he loved was, "Pretend that you are invisible, because nobody can see motorcycles very well." Also, "Live and Learn and Use What you Learn to Live". Music and animals were deeply important to Don, and both brought him lifelong joy. He passed his love of music on to his children, Shawn and Shelly, and spent many memorable nights enjoying live music at Blues on Grand, The Gas Lamp, and Carl's Lounge.

Don shared 62 years of marriage with his love, Linda. A self-proclaimed King of Oak Park, later of Highland Park, he was also affectionately known to friends as Cool Breeze or simply Breeze. He was especially proud of his Swedish heritage-and proudest of all of his daughter's Kringla and Swedish rye bread, which were beloved family staples.

He is survived by his wife, Linda; son Shawn (Janell) and their sons Cutter (Annissa) and Cam- run (Lizzie); daughter Shelly (Bill); great-grand- son Hank; and great-grandchildren Enslow and Palmer Jo. The family extends their sincere thanks to Hospice for their compassionate care, especially Sam Hill, Sabina, and Ann. Your support was deeply appreciated.

A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. In Don's memory, contributions may be made to the Animal Rescue League (ARL) or The Blues Society.

When you hear "Call Me the Breeze" by Lynyrd Skynyrd, think of Breeze.

He was the coolest.