Donald H. Nelson

Donald H. Nelson

October 2, 1947 – December 31, 2025

Donald H. Nelson, 78, of Dickinson, Texas, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, on December 31, 2025.

Visitation will be held from 9:00 – 10:00 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church with Father Larry Wilson Celebrant. Interment will follow at Mt. Olivet Catholic Cemetery.

Donald was born on October 2, 1947, in Charleston, Missouri, to Alvie and Ola Mae Nelson.

Donald honorably served his country in the United States Army and was a proud veteran of the Vietnam War. His service and sacrifice reflected his deep sense of duty and love for his country. After the war he and Mary Ann moved to Dickinson where they spent the last 56 years. He built homes with his brother Bill, where he also taught his sons Ricky and Randy the same trade. He and Mary Ann also loved traveling and watching their daughter Lisa play softball. Donald devoted his life to his family, whom he loved deeply. Donald enjoyed spending leisure time in Camilla Coves on Lake Livingston fishing. He retired from Shell Oil Refinery in Deer Park in 2007 as a mechanical equipment inspector.

A man of strong faith, Donald was a devoted member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church and a proud member of the Knights of Columbus, Council 10393.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Ann (Pazdera) Nelson of 58 years; his sons, Richard Nelson and wife, Robbie, Randall Nelson and wife, Lisa; daughter, Lisa Burnam. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Bailey Nelson, Blaine Nelson and wife, Andie, Bryce Burnam, Chloe Nelson, Aubrea Burnam and fiancé, Paul Edinburgh, Jr., Kyndal Burnam, Tyler Nelson, Megan Ratliff and husband, Andrew, Lindsey Clarac, Caitlyn Fisher and husband, Garrett. He was also blessed with great-grandchildren, Avri Miles, Preslee and Chandler Ratliff, Landon and Olivia Fisher. He is also survived by his sister, Sue Faust and Godfather (brother-in-law) George Pazdera and wife, Carolyn.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alvie and Ola Mae Nelson; stepfather, Arch Miller; brothers Jerry, Garland, and Bill Nelson; and grandchildren Kenzie, Brice, and Wyatt Nelson.

Donald will be remembered for his steady presence, gentle strength, and unwavering love for his family. His legacy lives on through the many lives he touched, and he will be deeply missed.

Pallbearers: Blaine Nelson, Bryce Burnam, Tyler Nelson, Garrett Fisher, Paul Edinburgh Jr. and Kelly Burnam.

Thank you, Heritage Hospice, for your help and support during this time.

In leu of flowers please make an online donation to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital at stjude.org/donatetoday.

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