Donald Peter Nelson, 87, of Paris, MI, passed away surrounded by his family on February 23, 2025, at Corewell Meijer Heart Center in Grand Rapids. He was born on November 6, 1937, in Barton Township, the son of Alfred and Thelma (Harter) Nelson. 

Don was raised in Big Rapids and graduated from Big Rapids High School in 1956. On June 6, 1959, he married the love of his life, Betty Lenon, and together they built a beautiful life filled with love, family, and cherished traditions. 

A longtime and faithful member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Don’s life was centered around his faith, family, and his deep appreciation for the great outdoors. He was an avid fisherman, enjoying everything from ice fishing to casting a line from his boat. He loved deer hunting, camping, riding his tractor, and cutting wood; any activity that allowed him to be outside. Don also found joy in snowmobiling, polka dancing, gardening, and birdwatching, always making sure the birds were well-fed. 

A quiet and kind-hearted man, Don was deeply devoted to his family. He took great pride in attending his grandchildren’s events and was always willing to lend a helping hand to his children. He was a hard worker, always active, and cherished the simple joys of life. 

Don is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 66 years, Betty; their children, Michael (Tracy) Nelson, and Kristine Nelson; grandchildren, Erin Nelson (Andrew), Jamie (Matthew) Drew, Matthew Nelson, and Amber (Christopher) Johnson; and great-grandchildren, Noah Drew and Isabelle and Avery Johnson. He is also survived by his brother, Duane (Debbie) Nelson; his sister, Margaret Anderson; his in-laws, Gerry Curtis, Linda (Jim) Cooley, Larry (Mary Ann) Lenon, Dan Lenon, and Jan (Connie) Settlemyre; and many nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister and brother-in-law Joanne (Alfred) Titcombe; sister Wilma Harter; brothers-in-law, George Anderson and Ron Curtis; and sister-in-law, Jeanne Lenon. 

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Big Rapids. Don’s family will greet friends from 5-7 p.m., Friday, February 28, 2025, at the Mohnke Janowicz Funeral Home in Big Rapids, and beginning at 10 a.m. at the church on Saturday. He will be laid to rest at Hungerford Cemetery in the spring. 

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in Don’s name may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church.