Donn Nelson Obituary

Donn S. Nelson

Donn S. Nelson, 89, a lifelong resident of Elgin, passed away due to heart failure on Friday, June 6, 2025, at Advocate Sherman Hospital in Elgin.

Beloved husband of Helen (née Vander Haar), his wife of 67 years. Loving father of Steve (Kim), Bob (Sheila), and Susan Sampson (Pete). Devoted brother of Karen Nelson.

Donn was born on December 1, 1935. He graduated from Elgin High School in 1954 and earned a degree in Pharmacy from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 1958. For over 25 years, Donn and Helen owned and operated the Village Pharmacy in West Dundee. He was never too busy to answer a question and eased his customers’ worries with a friendly joke and a ready smile. His wife, Helen, worked alongside him as a pharmacy technician and clerk. Together, they created a welcoming atmosphere that contributed to West Dundee’s strong sense of community. After the sale of their pharmacy, Donn and Helen worked at the Medicine Stop of Elgin for several years.

Starting in 1949, when he was 14, Donn attended the Indianapolis 500 for 70 years in a row. He kept every ticket stub from every race. He carried on the tradition with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who traveled to Indiana over Memorial Day weekend for a family reunion and to attend the race. Helen packed ham sandwiches, lemonade, and goodies for everyone.

Donn was a lifelong White Sox fan and was thrilled to attend Game 1 of the 2005 World Series in Chicago. He was an avid tennis player and belonged to several local bridge clubs, including one that was founded over 40 years ago and continues to meet every Tuesday at the Village Squire in West Dundee.

Donn and Helen visited numerous countries during their many cruises, where his warmth, lively stories, and sincere interest in others made them many new friends. They often dined at local restaurants including the Anvil Club, the Village Squire, Down the Hatch, Floyd's, and No. 10 Downing Street.

Donn lived 27 years after a septuple heart bypass and treasured each day. He is survived by his ten grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, whom he loved very much. He was looking forward to the arrival of another great-grandchild in September.

He was predeceased by his father, Spencer, and his mother, Lyda (née Trachsel) Nelson.

Visitation is planned from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 14, with a memorial service to follow at Miller Funeral Home, 504 West Main St., West Dundee, IL. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association. For information, you may contact Miller Funeral Home at 847-426-3436.