In loving memory of Donald Ellis Nielsen, age 70, who died on January 11, 2024. Don was a cherished son, brother, and uncle, loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, as well as a beloved member of his community in Guntersville, AL.
Don was born on January 8, 1954 in Austin, TX, where he lived most of his life. An accomplished guitarist and musician, Don was a music major at the University of Texas at Austin, where he played trombone in the Longhorn Band. Don was a skilled woodworker, master carpenter, entrepreneur, and dedicated construction manager for over three decades. Charismatic and witty, Don never met a stranger, and left a lasting impact on those who lived and worked alongside him.
Don was known for his infectious humor, child-like enthusiasm for life, compassionate heart, and unwavering dedication and ambition.
His legacy of love, hard work, and joy will forever resonate in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know him.
Don is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Vicky Nielsen, daughters Heather Pendergrast, Jessica Nielsen, Kate Mossman, and Lindsay Ticson, sons-in-law Mike Malburg, Jordan Shelton, Dan Mossman, and Joe Ticson, grandchildren Devyn Marraudino, Tristan Pendergrast, Falyn Pendergrast, Hawkins Mossman, Alice Ticson, and Atlas Mossman, great-grandchild Marceline Marraudino, mother-in-law Jan Tomblin White, and sister Sandra (Sandy) Nielsen Fortenberry.
He was preceded in death by his parents Ruth Nielsen and Homer Nielsen, and his siblings Dorris Livingstone, Shirley Pulliam, Sherman (Sonny) Winters, and Edward (Pete) Winters.
A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Heart Association or Lake Guntersville State Park via the Alabama State Parks Foundation.
