Donald McPherson

1922 - 2025

Donald McPherson

May 25, 1922 - August 14, 2025

Donald Melvin McPherson, a compassionate and humble soul, passed away peacefully on August 14, 2025, at the age of 103. Born on May 25, 1922, near Firth, Neb., Donald lived a remarkable life dedicated to his family, his faith, and his country. His journey was characterized by deep courage and unwavering dedication, leaving an indelible impression on everyone who crossed his path. Don was a member of "The Greatest Generation", by the best-selling book of that name by NBC News journalist Tom Brokaw. As Winston Churchill once said, "Courage is rightly esteemed the first of human qualities because it is the quality that guarantees all others." Donald was a living embodiment of this sentiment.

Donald's life was a harmonious blend of hard work and passion. He spent his early years working as a farmer and as a rural letter carrier, his days drenched in the Nebraska sun and his heart devoted to the land. His hobbies extended his love for hard work and craftsmanship, as he spent his free time woodworking, welding, hunting, and fishing. However, the brave spirit within him led him to greater heights, as he served as a World War II Ace Navy Pilot and was recognized as the last remaining WWII Ace fighter pilot in America. His courage and dedication were recognized with the Congressional Gold Medal, a testament to his extraordinary service. His love for his country was paralleled only by his devotion to his family and his faith. Donald married the love of his life, Thelma Johnston, on August 17, 1944, in Daytona Beach, Fla. Their life together was blessed with four children. He was a lifetime and active member of the Adams United Methodist Church, where his faith found expression in multiple leadership roles.

Despite his remarkable achievements, Donald remained grounded and humble. He was a respected member of the Adams VFW and American Legion and had been a Scout Master for Troop 280. His dedication to the community was not limited to his military service; he also served as the organizer, promoter, and coach for the Adams Summer Baseball and Softball Leagues. His tireless dedication to nurturing younger generations was a reflection of his compassionate spirit. Don was an avid Husker football, baseball and softball fan. He is survived by his daughters, Donna (Robin) Mulder of Lincoln, and Beth Delabar of Adams, and his son, Reverend Dean (Susie) McPherson of Omaha; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, Samuel and Minnie (Petz) McPherson; his beloved wife, Thelma, his son Steve; his grandsons Robert Delabar Jr. and Matthew Donald Delabar; and his son-in-law, Robert Delabar Sr.; and by his siblings including an infant brother.

Donald's extraordinary journey will be celebrated on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at 11 a.m., at the United Methodist Church in Adams, Nebraska. The service will be live-streamed for those unable to attend. Following the service, a lunch will be served at the church at 12 p.m. Donald will be laid to rest with military honors and a flyover at the Highland Cemetery in Adams at 2 p.m. Friends and family are invited to his public visitation on Monday, August 18, 2025, from 1 to 8 p.m. at the Griffiths-Hovendick Chapel in Beatrice with the family greeting friends from 6-7:30 p.m. A memorial has been established to the United Methodist Church in Adams and the American Heart Association with the funeral home in charge.

In memory of our beloved Donald, we invite you to share your favorite memories, stories, or photographs, and watch his service and video tribute on his memorial page on www.ghchapel.com. Let us remember and celebrate this humble and courageous man who touched our lives in countless ways.

These services have been entrusted to the Griffiths-Hovendick Chapel in Adams.

Griffiths-Hovendick Chapel

708 N. 6th Street

Beatrice, NE 68310

402-223-3521