Donald W. Nelson

Donald W. Nelson, 81, of Troutville, Va., died on Saturday, October 31, 2009. Donnie was born in Chicago, Ill., spending his boyhood days between the city and his family's farm in Wisconsin. He joined the Merchant Marines and then the United States Air Force where he retired after 25 years of service. He continued to serve his country as a civil servant drawing on his experience with airplanes. It was his love for the outdoors that drew him to his wife's family farm in Troutville following his retirement where he worked his garden, volunteered for the VA Hospital, and bowled many years with the OLD TIMERS league. He enjoyed a good meal, a good laugh, a good book and a good movie. He was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur W. and Florence Nelson; and his brother, Allen Nelson of Illinois. He will be deeply missed by his wife of 57 years, Elaine Woodrum Nelson; his children, Debra and Eric Tarburton, of Kentucky, Christie and Vince LeNoir, of Florida, and Mark and Sybille Nelson with Stacy Sauerbrun, of Troutville; his grandchildren, Brandon and Elisa LeNoir, of New York, Kimberly and Brandon Decker of Kentucky, Hunter Tarburton, of Delaware, and Tim, Jessie, Vince, Esther and Mallory LeNoir, of Florida. In lieu of flowers, please give a little extra this Holiday season to the Salvation Army bell ringers who held a special place in Donnie's heart. Simpson Funeral Home and Crematory are handling the arrangements. 540-366-0707.