Donald “Donnie” Leroy Nelson, 89, of Marquette, KS, peacefully passed away on Sunday, August 9, 2026, at Bethany Home, Lindsborg.
Donnie was born on August 28, 1936, in Lyons, Kansas, the son of Ely E. and May (Tucker) Nelson. He graduated from Geneseo High School in 1956 and, shortly thereafter, proudly answered the call to serve his country in the United States Navy. He served from 1956 to 1960 in the years immediately following the Korean War, serving as a Navy bomber squadron member aboard the USS Forrestal, the nation’s first “super carrier.”
In 1961, Donnie was united in marriage to Rosella Ann Gustus. He later married Ramona “Jean” (Jader) Jimerson on July 6, 1984, in Lindsborg, Kansas. Jean was the love of his life, and their years together were filled with love, laughter, family, and countless cherished memories. Jean preceded him in death on February 6, 2023.
Donnie devoted many years to his career at Johns Manville in McPherson before retiring. He was a member of Valley Community Church in Marquette and the Marquette American Legion.
Above all, Donnie cherished his family. He treasured the time spent with his loved ones and took great joy in being a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He had two daughters from his previous marriage and 10 grandchildren from that side of his family. He also cherished the many children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who became part of his life through his marriage to Jean. His family was a source of tremendous pride and happiness, and the memories they made together will remain a lasting part of his legacy.
Though he will be deeply missed by all who loved him, Donnie is now reunited with the one true love of his life, Jean. Their love and the life they shared will remain a cherished part of his family’s memories forever.
Survivors include his two daughters from his previous marriage; 10 grandchildren from that side of the family; sons, Charles “Randy” Jimerson (Rosa) of Abilene, KS, and Deryl Jimerson (Christy) of Council Grove, KS; daughter, Paula Best (Mike) of Marquette, KS; grandchildren, Charles Jimerson, IV, Christine Hurt (Brandon), Joshua Jimerson-Degan (Jordan), Jordan Tabares (Teeino), Mandy Kutina (Doug), Chad Jimerson, Braxton Best, and Bayle Best (Kaylyn); 17 great-grandchildren; and numerous extended family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Jean Nelson; his best friend, Charles Junior “Chuck” Jimerson; daughter Edie Gustus; son Marty Jimerson; daughter-in-law Charlene Jimerson; grandson Michael Dean Jimerson; granddaughter Ruthie Jimerson; great-grandson Caeden Hurt; eight brothers; and one sister.
The funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, August 13, at Valley Community Church, Marquette, with Pastor Kenny Baumann officiating. Burial with Military Honors will follow the service at Marquette Cemetery.
Memorial donations can be payable to Marquette American Legion or Valley Community Church in care of Stockham family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460.