Donnalene A. Nelson

Donnalene Ann (Mehus) Nelson, affectionately known as Donna, passed away peacefully at the age of 83 on February 6, 2026, at St. Johns On Fountain Lake in Albert Lea, Minnesota. Donna was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose life reflected devotion and kindness. She found her greatest joy in caring for her family and creating a welcoming home, touching everyone with her gentle and nurturing spirit.

Born on October 8, 1942, to Inga C. (Burkhow) and Nels H. Mehus, Donna grew up in Glenville, Minnesota. She attended school there and enjoyed the company of friends, and her large, close-knit family.

Donna married Dennis L. Nelson, on October 3, 1964. Together they built a life centered around love and support, raising three children: David, Darwin, and Dawn.

For many years, Donna was a stay-at-home mom before starting work at Glenville High School in 1987. She spent 18 years at the school, taking on any task asked of her—painting, driving the bus, helping in the lunchroom, and assisting students as a Paraprofessional. She approached every job with quiet strength and a willingness to help, leaving a lasting impression on her colleagues and students.

Donna enjoyed snowmobiling, music, and dancing in her younger years, especially lively polkas and songs by The Kendalls and ABBA. These hobbies brought happiness and created special memories with her loved ones.

She was known for her spotless home and yard, perfectly manicured nails, and sharp eye for bargains while shopping. Donna cherished simple pleasures, like sharing coffee with friends and baking—her zucchini bread was a family favorite. She found comfort in the routine of everyday life, preferring the warmth of her home to large social events. Her family always relied on her steady and grounding presence.

Donna's deep love for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren showed in her eagerness to be present at their activities, always making time for them in her schedule.

Donna is lovingly survived by her devoted husband, Dennis Nelson; her children, David (Sandy) Nelson, Darwin (Mary) Nelson, and Dawn (Robert Nesset) Nelson; and her cherished grandchildren, Jessica (Jared) Asay, Zachary (Micayla) Nelson, Dalton Nesset, Devin Nelson, Katelyn (Brennan) Hanson, and Kayler Nesset (fiancé, Charley Elwood).

Donna’s legacy continues through her beloved great-grandchildren: Madelyn and Isla Asay, and Brooks Nelson. She is also survived by her brother, Marion Mehus, sister-in-law, Ruth Mehus, and several dear in-laws, including Robert “Gundy” (Sandie) Nelson, Sharon (Ron) Olson, Barbara Allan, LaVonne Dougherty and Charlotte Nelson-Schocker.

Donna was preceded in death by her sisters, Irene (George) Gordon and Darlene (Carl) Dobberstein; and her brothers, Glen Mehus, Gene (Audrey) Mehus, Arlo Mehus, Virgil (Helen) Mehus, Herb Mehus, and sister-in-law Audrey Mehus; as well as several other brothers- and sisters-in-law.

The funeral service will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Glenville First Lutheran Church in Glenville, Minnesota. Visitation will start one hour before the service, followed by burial at Glenville First Lutheran Church Cemetery. Pastor Eileen Woyen will officiate.

Donna’s legacy of devotion to her family, pride in her home, and countless acts of quiet care will be deeply missed and forever treasured. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved her.

Memorials may be sent to the First Lutheran Church in Glenville or to a charity of your choice.