Donald Lee Nelson

Donald Lee Nelson was born on January 31st 1929, on the eve of the Great Depression. His father, Herman Nelson, worked as a fireman in Burbank California and his mother, Mattie Merle (Tipps) had a green thumb. Together they were able to feed and support not only their immediate family, but helped to feed their extended families through some difficult years.

Growing up in Burbank in the 30s and 40s during the “Golden Age” of movie studios, Donnie, his sister Iris, and their friends had front row seats to the celebrities and productions of Warner Brothers, Universal and Disney studios.

In 1941 when the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor Donnie was 12 years old. It took 5 years of pleading with his mother before she finally relented and signed the papers that would allow him to join the military. At 17 years old, Don joined the Army and was sent overseas to serve in occupied Japan. These early experiences shaped the man.

After the War, Don began his career in construction, eventually becoming a contractor. In the 1950s Don married Leta Wolf “the most beautiful girl he had ever seen”. They had three children, Cynthia, Donna and Scott. Don and his “second mate” Teresa Miller shared lots of good times. Together they had a daughter, Christie. His “third mate” Avis Arnold brought Nancy, Leslie, Mike and Eric Drushella into the family. Don believed Avis was the best person he had ever met. He was Dad to his eight children and their spouses, and Saba or Grandpa to a herd of grandchildren and great grandchildren. This large eclectic group has always been family, in large part due to Don’s open heart and generous spirit.

Don lived life to the fullest. He loved his large blended family, travel adventures and playing blackjack and never missed an opportunity to combine the three. He died at home surrounded by family on November 7, 2022 after getting the most out of his 93 years. Don left his family a legacy of great memories. He will always be well loved and sorely missed.