1960's Don moved his family to Redding, California where he worked in construction building homes. After 5 years in California he returned to farming and home building in Minnesota. In 1980 Don married Lois Bretzman Nelson at St. Peter's Lutheran Church parsonage. They lived in Windom and then moved to a farm outside Windom. In 2005 they moved to Windom. Travel was another of Don's passions. Don and Lois enjoyed traveling around Minnesota camping and fishing in the summer. For over 30 years in the winter they could be found in Texas, Arizona and the west coast of the United States. During these trips he enjoyed performing with his son, Ted. Additionally Don loved to tell stories of his trips to Hawaii, the Bahamas, "Old" Mexico and Alaska. Through all his travels he continued to play music. Don had a strong faith and imparted it to many of his children and grandchildren. A member of St. Peter's Lutheran Church, he always played music for the annual Turkey Supper. No biography of Don would be complete without mentioning his social activities. He loved to play cards, to fish and dance. He enjoyed his time with his family especially his grandchildren. In his later years he enjoyed his daily trips to McDonald's (Mackie's) to visit with his friends. His friends appreciated all of Don's sayings and observations. In recent years when he was asked how old he was he always said "I'm not old, but I've been around a long time" and "I don't want to set the world on fire, I just want to light a spark". Don was the life of the party - he didn't have to try hard to bring the fun. Don was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Erwin and sister, Dorothy. He is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Lois. Also children Woody (Kathy), Lakefield; Ted (Sue), Gilbert, Arizona; Pennie (Matt) Bezdicek, Windom; Dan (Brenda), Spirit Lake, Iowa; Willie (Bonnie), San Antonio, Texas; Patrice (David) Voss, San Antonio, Texas; and Pam Robison, San Antonio, Texas. Also 3 step-children Lorelei (Radd) Johnson, Ponce Inlet, Florida; Lynel Nelson, St. Paul and Donovan (Kris) Nelson, Austin, Texas. Also 25 grandchildren and 13 great-children and "honorary" grandchildren Ava and Jilian Schoenfeld. Also 2 sisters Loretta (Bill) Gehl, Dundee and Janis (Don) Heintz, Dundee. And many beloved neices and nephews and numerous good friends. Blessed be his memory and Praise to the Lord for his life. He will be missed. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to St. Peter's Lutheran Church, Lakefield.