Donald W. Nelson 66, of Rolla

Donald Wayne Nelson, of Rolla, passed away Sunday, August 19, 2012 at the age of 66.

He was born on April 22, 1946 in Dent County, MO to the late Archie and Eunice Nelson. On April 5, 1980, he married Peggy L (Grogan) Nelson who survives of the home.

Don served the state of Missouri for 33 years in the service of the Missouri Department of Conservation and the 25th Judicial Circuit Division as a Deputy/Chief Deputy Juvenile Officer until his retirement. He was a champion in the protection of abused and neglected children. Don had a positive impact on children and families he served of delinquent offenders.

Don loved to hunt and fish or anything that had to do with the outdoors.

He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Rolla and served as a deacon. He enjoyed working at the church in any capacity he was needed. He especially loved working with children.

He will be sadly missed by his surviving family which includes: his wife, Peggy Nelson of Rolla; his son, Justin Nelson and wife Ashley of St. Louis, MO; a sister-in-law, Wanda Vance; three brothers-in-law, Steve Vance, Rickey Grogan and Weldon Crook; a host of nieces and nephews; and many, many friends.

A funeral service for Don W. Nelson will be conducted at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, August 22, 2012 at the Null and Son Funeral Home in Rolla. Rev. Bob Johnston will officiate. Interment will follow in the Ozark Hills Memorial Gardens Cemetery. A visitation for family and friends will be held from 6-8 p.m. on Tuesday, August 21 at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the First Baptist Church Building Fund.

Online condolences may be offered at www.nullandsonfuneralhome.com.

All arrangements are under the direction of the Null and Son Funeral Home of Rolla.