Donald Nelson

1968 - 2025

Donald Lee Nelson, 56, of Eau Claire, passed away peacefully on March 15th. He was surrounded by family after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on July 30th, 1968, to Jinny Nelson and Robert Nelson in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. Donny married the love of his life and Soul Mate, Glenda Barnhardt in 1998 and their families blended together. Donny attended CVTC and graduated with an associate's degree in fluid power. He worked at Rachel's chips and Holsom bakery. He was also a Sergeant in the Wisconsin Army National Guard. In 2004, when the bakery closed, Dennis Arneson and Donny started A&P Construction. Donny was one of a kind. His love for his family was unmatched. He would do anything to help someone out. You would always see him in his cowboy hat and boots. Children would stop him to ask if he was a real cowboy. He would say yes and loved every minute they asked him questions. Donny was an avid fisherman; he loved the outdoors and rock hunting. He really enjoyed the weekly golf outings with his Twin Dave and Brother-in-law Verne Barnhardt. Donny is survived by his Wife, Glenda Nelson; Daughter, Myreeah Jo Johnson, Stepsons Andrew (Ellen) Michael and Daniel Michael. Donny has seven Grandchildren: Athena, Julian, Lucian, Landon, Ava Belle, Allistair, and Octavia. He was so proud of every one of them. Mother Jinny Thompson Osbourne (Don), Father Robert Nelson, Siblings Robert (Cathy) Thompson, Twin David Thompson, Taffy (Tim) Myers, Travis Nelson, Trevor (Christine) Nelson, Tammy Lapointe, many nieces, nephews, and other extended family. He was preceded in death by Grandma Janice and Grandpa Myrl Brunn, Uncle Mike Brunn, Dad Glenn Thompson, and Father-in-Law Richard Barnhardt. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, April 19th, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the VFW Post 305 on Starr Ave. In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated.