Donald Edward Nelson

Donald Edward Nelson, 77, of Manlius, died Saturday, March 26, 2016 at Crouse Hospital Syracuse after a sudden illness. Don was born August 27, 1938 in Milton Massachussettes, the oldest child of George and Doris (Eckert) Nelson. Don graduated from West Springfield High School and attended 3 years of college. Don worked most of his career as an accountant for Agway, where he retired. After retirement he worked as a home healthcare aid, a job he truly enjoyed. Don's beautiful tenor voice can be heard in the choir and as a soloist at Northminster Presbyterian Church in North Syracuse. Don loved gardening, his aquariums, golfing and any family gathering. He served in the U.S. Army Reserves for six years. At a young age he fell in love with the Boston Red Sox and was seldom seen without his Red Sox cap. After moving to Central New York in 1964, Don became a fan of Syracuse University sports. Don and his former wife, Penelope Louise, raised three children they cherished: Kimberly (Nelson) Leonard, Kristen (Nelson) Smith and Erik Nelson. Don was beloved grandpa to nine grandchildren and three great grandchildren, with a fourth on the way.



He is survived by his children Kim and George Leonard of Rochester and their children George (Nikki) Leonard and their daughters, Nicholas (Nicole) Leonard and their daughter, Ashley Leonard, Jordan Leonard; Kristen and D.J. Smith of East Syracuse and their children Jeffrey Smilth and Rachel Smith; Erik and Shelley Nelson of Austin TX and their children Penelope Nelson, Theis Nelson and Eloise Nelson; a brother Phillip, his church family and many friends.



Don was predeceased by his father in February 1988 and later by his Mother in February 2007.



Calling hours are 4-7pm Friday, April 1 at Newcomer Funeral Home in North Syracuse. Funeral Service will be held Saturday at 11 am at Northminster Presbyterian Church in North Syracuse. Burial will be Monday in Mount Hope Cemetary in Mattapan, Massachusetts.



Donations in Don's memory can be made to the following:



Northminster Presbyterian Church

7444 Buckley Road

North Syracuse, NY 13212



We are grateful for the memories and time with our father and grandpa Don. We will hold these loving memories close to our hearts.