Donald L. Nelson

Donald “Donnie” Leroy Nelson, 89, of Marquette, KS, peacefully passed away on Sunday, August 9, 2026, with family by his side at Bethany Home, Lindsborg.

Donnie was born on August 28, 1936, in Lyons, Kansas, the son of Ely E. and Mae (Tucker) Nelson. He graduated from Geneseo High School in 1956 and, shortly thereafter, proudly answered the call to serve his country in the United States Navy. He served from 1956 to 1960 in the years immediately following the Korean War, serving as a Navy bomber squadron member aboard the USS Forrestal, the nation’s first “super carrier.”

In 1961, Donnie was united in marriage to Rosella Ann Gustus. He later married Ramona “Jean” (Jader) Jimerson on July 6, 1984, in Lindsborg, Kansas. Jean preceded him in death on February 6, 2023.

Donnie devoted many years to his career at Johns Manville in McPherson before retiring. He was a member of Valley Community Church in Marquette and the Marquette American Legion.

Donnie enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, particularly vegetable gardening, hunting, and fishing. He had an ornery and playful nature and was well known for his quick wit and his habit of giving family members and close friends colorful nicknames.

Above all, Donnie cherished his family. He treasured the time spent with his loved ones and took great joy in being a grandfather and great-grandfather. His family was a source of tremendous pride and happiness, and the memories they made together will remain a lasting part of his legacy.

Survivors include his daughters, Brenda Nelson (Gordan Doman) of Hutchinson, KS and Shari Geren (Brad) of Windom, KS; step-sons, Charles “Randy” Jimerson (Rosa) of Abilene, KS and Deryl Jimerson (Christy) of Council Grove, KS; step-daughter, Pamela Dalke of Wichita Falls, TX; a sister, Saundra Wingert (Jerry) of Hutchinson, KS; 10 grandchildren, Brad Marr (Amelia), Brandi Marr, Ethan Marr, Chelsi Ruhnke (Trevor), Kyle Surface (Janessa), Colby Geren, Colton Geren (Macy), Ricki Snyder (Ron), Clarissa Dalke, and Tyler Dalke; 17 great-grandchildren; and numerous step-grandchildren, step-great-grandchildren, extended relatives, and friend.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Jean Nelson; step-daughter, Edie Gustus; step-son, Marty Jimerson; eight brothers; and one sister.

The funeral service will be held at 10:30 AM, Thursday, August 13, 2026, at Valley Community Church, Marquette, with Pastor Kenny Baumann officiating. The family will receive friends from 9:30 AM until service time on Thursday. Burial with Military Honors will follow the service at Marquette Cemetery.

Memorial donations can be payable to Marquette American Legion or Valley Community Church in care of Stockham family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460.