Donald Nelson

After a courageous16 month battle with colon cancer, Donald Nelson passed away on the morning of November 14, 2024, at the age of 66. He was born to Clair and Marjorie Nelson in Fargo, North Dakota. He spent his childhood in West Fargo running barefoot, climbing trees, building forts, and playing on the banks of the Sheyenne River.
In 1971 the family moved to Scottsdale, Arizona and has remained in the Valley of the Sun for many years. Donald earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Molecular Biosciences and Biotechnology. After graduation, he joined a group of ASU professors in association with Thermo Fisher Scientific. He ran the lab and conducted scientific research. Donald enjoyed reading. His favorite book was Shogun from The Asian Saga by James Clavell. A quote from the book stated, "Only by living at the edge of death, can you understand the indescribable joy of life." The little things became big things to Donald in the end. Donald will be missed by his sisters Charlotte and Connie. They were by his side throughout his cancer journey. Donald is also survived by his nephews Jason, Dale and Brandon. His nieces Heidi, Kelsey and Mary. He has 16 great nieces and nephews to be remembered by.
We would like to thank the numerous doctors, nurses, social workers and amazing healthcare professionals that we met along the way. There are truly angels among us. A Celebration of Life will be held at a private gathering in the Superstition Mountains.