Obituary of Donald A. Nelson

Donald A. Nelson, 89, husband of Shirley O. (Ryder) Nelson of Peabody, died on Monday, April 20, 2009 at the Danvers Twin Oaks. Mr. Nelson was born in Lynn on April 23, 1919 the son of the late Carl G. and Florence M. (Burt) Nelson. He was raised in Peabody and graduated from Peabody High School and was a lifelong resident of the city. Mr. Nelson was employed for 44 ½ years as an inspector at the General Electric Riverworks Aircraft Engine Division until his retirement in 1982. Mr. Nelson was an avid sports fan and he and his wife were well know in the square dancing circuit on the North Shore, New Hampshire and Florida. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children and their spouse, Donald C. and Dorothy Nelson of Peabody, Selma A. and Robert Johanson of Boxford, Roger F. and Marcia Nelson of Alton Bay, NH, and Douglas P. and Jeanne Nelson of Peabody, a former daughter-in-law, Patricia Nelson of Danvers; 10 grandchildren, Lori Hutchinson of Salem, Lynne Manion of Old Town, ME, Robin Johanson of Sauderstown RI, David Johanson of Georgetown, Greg Johanson and Nell Johanson of Boxford, Jeffrey Nelson and James Nelson of Naperville, IL, Kris Weick of Plainfield, IL, and Stephanie Halpin of Peabody; 17 great grandchildren; 1 great grandson; a niece and 2 nephews. The family will receive relatives and friends at the Conway, Cahill-Brodeur Funeral Home, 82 Lynn St. (facility) Peabody on Friday, April 24, 2009 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. His memorial service will be held on Friday at 11:30 a.m. in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Sol Amor Hospice, 161 South Main, Suite 209, Middleton MA 01949 or the Lake Shore Park United Methodist Church, 33 Bay State Rd., Lynn MA 01904. Burial of ashes will be held at Pine Grove Cemetery, Broadway, Lynn.