Donald Nelson Obituary
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Donald M. Nelson
Donald M. Nelson, 84, of Wilkins Township, passed away Tuesday May 21, 2024. He was born July 31, 1939, in Pittsburgh, son of the late L. Melvin Nelson and the late Dagmar Anderson Nelson. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his beloved son, Donald Nelson Jr.
Don is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Marigene H. Nelson, and several nieces and nephews who will deeply miss him.
Don dedicated 35 years of his life to educating and inspiring students as an esteemed AP Chemistry Teacher. He pursued his education at Allegheny College and Case Western Reserve University before embarking on his teaching career; which included Swissvale High School, Churchill High School and Woodland Hills High School.
Don was a devout member of the Oakmont United Methodist Church for over 50 years. He found solace and community in his faith. Don grew up in Oakmont and remained actively involved in his church family throughout his life, leaving an indelible mark on those around him.
Beyond his professional and religious pursuits, Don cherished his summers in Lake Erie, where he and his wife spent time in a cottage that he and his grandfather built together. These moments were filled with joy, laughter, and precious memories that Don held dear.
Family and friends will be received on Tuesday, May 28, 2024 from 11 AM - 1 PM, followed by a funeral service at 1 PM, at English Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 378 Maryland Ave., Oakmont, PA 15139.
Donald M. Nelson will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his soul rest in eternal peace and his legacy continue to inspire those whose lives he touched.
"And be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God also forgave you in Christ" Ephesians 4:32
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Dinah Thiers
June 2, 2024
I met him in 1972, at the former Churchill High School (now called Woodland Hills High School). Mr Nelson taught Advanced Chemistry, and encouraged me in that field. Not only did he impart a huge amount of chemistry to me, he believed in his students, and that is one major reason I have a doctorate in Chemistry today. I think of him very often, and I know his wife and family will miss him- my condolences to all of you.
Aarti Gurnani, CAHS `85
May 31, 2024
Mr Nelson was a wonderful teacher who had a profound impact beyond the classroom. He always pushed me to aim higher and never to forget that TIDNL. Thank you, Mr Nelson, for being such an inspiration to so many. Rest in peace.
Mollie (Miller) Lucot, WHHS `90
May 26, 2024
Mr. Nelson had a special way of making chemistry fun and high school less awkward. Years later, his unique phrases are still a part of my vocabulary. My sympathies to the Nelson family on his passing.
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Tabitha Husted
May 26, 2024
Extending my sympathies to Mrs. Nelson and family. Mr. Nelson was the best chemistry teacher a student could ask for. He made science fun...like solving puzzles. We wanted to be in chem class! I have distinct memories (like the eyeballs he drew) almost 40 years later, but what permeates those memories the most is his smile. If he was teaching, he was smiling about it. Thanks for being you, Mr. Nelson. You will always be remembered with fondness and respect. Tabitha Husted CAHS '85, Duquesne University B.S. Chemistry '89
Erika Hoffman
May 26, 2024
Mr Nelson was a fantastic educator Promoted women in STEM. He prepared us for college chemistry Ever grateful for his teaching
Kristin Burgard, CHS `87
May 25, 2024
Mr. Nelson was an incredible chemistry teacher. He had a great sense of humor and I´m lucky to have been one of his students. PV=nrT
Joseph Zanghi
May 25, 2024
I hold very fond memories of the entire Nelson family. They were part of the Forest Park family on Lake Erie.
I moved to Forest Park when Don´s father and mother were still alive.
May they accept my condolences and take comfort that Don is safe and loved in the hands of the Lord.
Timothy Pease
May 24, 2024
Amazing educator. I´ve told stories of him my whole life. Rest in peace.
Dave Holmes
May 24, 2024
Mr. Nelson was a brilliant, incredibly kind man who took infinite pains to help me become more confident and to trust myself. I will never forget how much he did for me. Sending love and condolence to his family!
Larry Berger
May 24, 2024
A brilliant teacher, Mr. Nelson helped many discover the joy of science and a love for chemistry. He also gave us the tools we needed for college, too. But, above all, he did so with originality, passion, and a style all his own. -- Larry Berger, CAHS '79; CMU Chemical Engineering/Public Policy, '83
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378 Maryland Avenue, Oakmont, PA 15139
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