Donald “Ned” Lee Nelson

Graveside Inurnment Services for Donald (Ned) Lee Nelson, 72, Lawrence, KS will be 3:30 pm, Tuesday, March 8, 2022, at Oak Hill Cemetery in Lawrence, KS. Don passed away Saturday, February 26, 2022, at The Arbors at Monterey Village, Lawrence, KS. Don was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s three and one half years ago and moved to The Arbors one and one half years ago. Two months ago, Faith Hospice began visiting him. The care Don received from Faith Hospice and The Arbors was greatly appreciated.

Don was born April 27, 1949, in Lawrence, KS to Homer D. and Goldie L. (Houghton) Nelson. He graduated from Lawrence High School in 1967 and went on to attend the University of Kansas earning his Bachelor of Fine Arts. He was in ROTC and was a member of Acacia Fraternity at KU.

Don’s first job was a lifeguard, but he worked many jobs during his career, including working at KU Recycling Center, White Sewing Center and Stokely Van Camp before he opened his own business, “Flip City,” a pinball arcade. He loved working with his hands, so he worked construction before opening his own remodeling and deck construction business, “Nelson Construction.”

Don enjoyed being outdoors, especially doing activities such as hunting, fishing and gardening. He loved animals and had many pets during his life. He also enjoyed watching the Royals, Chiefs and many KU sports.

Don is survived by his sister-in-law, Dianna Nelson, Lawrence, nephew, Chris Nelson, Lawrence, niece, Donna Binns, Charleston, IL and several cousins.

Don was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Stephen D. Nelson.

Memorial contributions may be made to Lawrence Humane Society and may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th St., Lawrence, KS 66044.