Donald Otis Neilson

Don was born in Murray, Utah to William and Rosalie Neilson, the second of four children. He grew up in Utah and Nevada, graduating from White Plains High School in 1944. At age 17, he enlisted in the Navy. The Officer’s Training Program took him to the University of Washington where he met Dorothy Walker. After graduating in 1948 with a degree in Aeronautical Engineering, Don and Dorothy were married Sept. 10, 1948. Don continued his education in Boston at MIT, earning a Master’s degree in Aeronautical Engineering in 1950 before returning to Seattle where he had a long career at Boeing. The Neilson’s settled on Mercer Island where they built a home and raised three children. Don was an active member of the Presbyterian Church, both at University Presbyterian in Seattle and as a founding member of Bellevue Presbyterian Church, where he served as an elder and taught Bible classes. Generous and compassionate, Don was a strong supporter of missions, both home and abroad. Family came first. Don loved spending time on Crane Island and sharing it with family and friends. He also enjoyed his workshop, gardening, photography, and spending time on his computer, organizing pictures and making slideshows. Known for his ability to fix almost anything, he kept the family cars running, the washer working, and the clocks ticking. His homemade sourdough bread and pancakes were enjoyed by many, along with chocolate candies and other treats. Don loved to tell stories, and will be remembered for his sharp wit and sense of humor. Predeceased by his wife Dorothy in 2009, he is survived by his children Daniel Neilson, Wendy Werner, Aldryth (Brian) O’Hara, six grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.