Donald L. Nelson

Donald L. Nelson, 101, passed away on Sunday, June 7, 2026.

Born and raised in Benton County, Don graduated from Pine Township School in 1943. He enlisted in the United States Navy in January 1945, serving as an aviation machinist and aerial gunner (turret gunner). During his military service, he married the love of his life, June Larson, on October 6, 1945, at Allapattah Methodist Church in Miami, Florida. June preceded him in death.

Following his honorable discharge from the Navy in August 1946, Don and June returned to Benton County and began farming in Pine Township. His career in agriculture eventually led him to become farm manager at Joan of Arc, and he later retired from the same position with Pillsbury.

Don believed deeply in serving his community and giving back. He was a member of the American Legion for more than 50 years and dedicated countless hours to local organizations, including the Benton County Fair Board, Mt. Gilboa Cemetery Board, Fowler United Methodist Church and the Otterbein PTA, where he served as president.

Along the way, Don and June built a loving family. He is survived by his three daughters, Linda (Roy) Jones of Lafayette, Janet (Stan) Whitehead of Darlington, and Mary Lynn (Rick) Davis of Thorntown; as well as a sister, Pat Steinmetz of Eugene, Oregon. In addition to his grandchildren, Kerry (John) Blanton of Brookings, South Dakota; Leslie Whitehead of Hendersonville, Tennessee; and Dalton (Hannah) Davis of Thorntown, Indiana. Don was blessed twenty years ago with two bonus grandchildren, Justin (Heather) Jones of Madison, Wisconsin, and Ashley (TJ) Peters of Kokomo, Indiana. His legacy reaches further through his two great-grandchildren, John Blanton III of Fort Benning, Georgia; and Olivia (Keegan) Dorr of Augusta, Georgia.

Don loved spending time with family and friends, whether sharing a meal, playing cards, or enjoying a variety of board games. More often than not, he emerged victorious. He was always curious about how things worked and eager to learn new things, which is why he was one of the few centenarians with a Facebook page and regularly texted photos to friends and family. He was excited to be accepted to one of the Honor Flights to visit the World War II Memorial with his good friend and neighbor, Vic Gick.

Don was an accomplished woodworker who especially enjoyed creating projects with his scroll saw. Many people may not have realized that he also had an adventurous spirit and was something of a thrill seeker. He loved activities that were fast-paced or daring—anything that stirred the butterflies in his stomach and brought a twinkle to his eye. Among his favorite adventures were taking an IndyCar ride at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway at age 92 and, at age 97, flying in a P-51 Mustang biplane aircraft with a friend, during which he successfully executed a perfect roll.

A celebration of Don's life will be held on Saturday, June 13, at The Grove Convenant Church with visitation from 10:00 – 11:00 A.M. (ET) followed immediately by the service at 11:00. Full Military Honors will be held graveside at Mt. Gilboa United Methodist Church (8322 E 300 N, Fowler, Indiana), at 1:30 p.m. As a man of faith, Don loved the Lord with all his heart.

Don will be remembered for his dedication to family, faith, agriculture, and community service. His century-long life was marked by hard work, generosity, and a commitment to making his community a better place for future generations.

Don's care has been entrusted to Gerts, Windler & Keller Funeral Home ~ Fowler Chapel | 506 E Main St Fowler, IN 47944 | (765)864-0110 | www.KellerFH.com