Harold Donald "Don" Nealis

Harold Donald "Don" Nealis, 82, of Madison, formerly of Holton passed away at 3 p.m., Saturday, April 5, 2025 at his home. He was born in Indianapolis on September 19, 1942, the son of Harold and Beatrice Beach Nealis. He was married to Mary Dobbs on August 4, 2004, and she survives. Other survivors include one daughter Rae Jean Auterson of Versailles; step-son Kyle Heidorn of Osgood. He was also preceded in death by his parents, son Randy Nealis, his step-father Donald Boyd, and his half-brothers James and Steven Nealis. Mr. Nealis was a 1960 graduate of Holton High School. His working career spanned many years including managing an asphalt plant for Cabot Paving for 24 years and owning and operating Nealis Monuments. He was in charge of the opening and closing of graves for the Holton Cemetery where he also served as a trustee. Don also did monument restoration in many of the old local cemeteries which included the restoration of many Revolutionary War solider monuments. He enjoyed his Percherons Lester and Larry and also did restoration on horse drawn equipment as well as old homes. He was also an avid coon hunter and one year qualified for the Coon Hunters World Championship. Don was a member of the Holton Christian Church, Holton Masonic Lodge, the Eastern Star, and was a 55- year member of Local 181 of the International Union of Operating Engineers. Don's wishes were to be cremated and their will be private burial services at a later date in the Holton Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Holton Cemetery in care of the Stratton-Karsteter Funeral Home in Versailles.