Donald George Nielson 1942-2013

Donald George Nielsen, age 70, of Wells, MN, died Friday, March 15, 2013 at his home. Burial will take place at the Beufort National Cemetery, Beufort, South Carolina. Date of visitation will be Friday, March 29, 2013 at Bruss-Heitner Funeral Home in Wells from 5:00-7:00 PM. 

Donald was born October 23, 1942 in Mankato, MN, the son of George and Margaret (Eubanks) Nielsen. After high school, he entered the U.S. Navy, retiring honorably after 22 years of service as an electrical technician. He served aboard the USS DeHaven DD-727 from 1962-1965. Following his retirement from the U.S. Navy, he continued working as an electrical technician in the private sector traveling worldwide to perform services and repairs. 

He was united in marriage to Carol Barr, who preceded him in death. He moved to Wells several years ago, where he met and married his second wife, Carol Hodge. The two were later divorced. 

Donald especially enjoyed the many special friends he made over the years. Donald was a member of the VFW, the Shriners and was past Commander of the Wells American Legion. 

Donald enjoyed his pets, fishing, golfing, hunting and watching the History Channel. He also loved to cook. One of his favorite pastimes was driving his 'little blue truck'. 

Donald is survived by his daughter Kirsten Marie Howard (Britt) of Elizabeth City, North Carolina, and granddaughter Ashlynn; brother Joel (Donna) Nielsen of Mankato; sister Gloria Jean Lowe of Arizona; half brother Paul (Connie) Krause of Truman, MN; and many nieces and nephews. 

Donald was preceded in death by his wife Carol, son Donald Jr. (Bucky) and twin infant granddaughters.