Donald Nelson

Donald F. Nelson, age 66, of Hastings, Minnesota, entered Eternal Life on March 5, 2016, surrounded by his loved ones after a brief battle with Glioblastoma. Don was born on June 23, 1949 to Lloyd and Geraldine (Dietzman) Nelson and grew up on a small farm near Cadott, Wisconsin. After attending the Big Drywood one-room elementary school, Don graduated from Cadott High School in 1967. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Industrial Technology from the University of WI-Stout and accepted a position with Wick Homes in Menomonie, Wisconsin. Later, he was employed by Kendell O’Brien Lumberyard in Winona, Minnesota. On June 18, 1976, Don married Dorbra Hofland. In 1989, Don and his family moved to Hastings. After working for Charles Cudd Company for several years, Don started his own company, American Classic Homes, priding himself in quality craftsmanship and personalized customer service. Don was the recipient of numerous prestigious Builders awards. Don was greatly involved in his church through mission trips, youth group and as a trustee. Through these various life connections, Don has had a profound influence on many people. Don was preceded in death by his wife, Dorbra, and his mother and father. He is survived by his daughters: Nicole Nawrocki and grandson, Kyle of Hastings, and Krista (Nathan) Miller of Eagan; his girlfriend, Donna Brittain of St. Paul; his sister, Janice Schiedler of Cadott; twin brother, Ronald (Susanne) Nelson of Delavan, Wisconsin and many nieces and nephews. There will be a Celebration of Life on Friday (3/11) at 11:00 AM at Hastings United Methodist Church, 615 W. 15th St., Hastings. A visitation will be held on Thursday (3/10) from 4:00 – 8:00 PM at Wise Family Funeral Home, 400 Spring St., Hastings, and one hour prior to the service at church. The family extends a heartfelt thank you to: the many doctors, nurses and staff at Regions Hospital; the compassionate caregivers at Pillars Hospice Home; and for all the love of friends who called, visited and provided meals to the family. The Wise Family Funeral Home is serving the family. Visit www.wisefamilyfh.com to view the memorial video and sign the online guestbook.