Daniel Nelson Obituary

Daniel Lee Nelson, 61, a devoted father, husband, son, brother, and cherished "Pop". went home to be with The Lord on June 15, 2025 at 7:24 PM.
Born in Crisfield, Md. On October 8, 1963, Dan was the beloved son of H. Daniel Nelson and the late Thea Lee Nelson. The family moved to Salisbury, Md. In 1970 where Dan grew up and attended school. He graduated from Wicomico Senior High School in 1981 where he also participated in sports programs.
In addition to his father, Dan is survived by his wife, Rae Nelson and his special friend, Dawn Rudolph; his former wives, Michele Webster, and Monica Snee; three sons whom he adored, Jordan Nelson (fiancée Jenah), Hunter Nelson (wife Dayna), and Ryan Nelson; and his stepdaughter, Jillian Brenneman. He was a proud grandfather to Jazlyn Brenneman and to Natalie, Aubrey, and Zoey Guerra. Dan is also survived by his sister Juley Harper (husband Dale); niece Daisy Harper; nephew Daniel Harper, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family. He was preceded in death by his stepson, Joshua Brenneman.
Dan proudly served his country in the United States Army. He began basic training at Fort Jackson, SC. In 1983 and served in both San Antonio, Tx. and Fort Meade, Md. He also served abroad in Germany in 1984 and 1989. He was honorably discharged in 1990 with the rank of Sergeant E-5. Following his military service, Dan pursued his nursing degree in San Antonio, Tx., becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse.
Dan last worked at Genesis Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Salisbury, Md. until 2013 when an injury and health challenges ended his professional career. Despite those challenges, Dan remained positive and found purpose in his relationships and passions.
Of all his life's accomplishments, Dan was most proud of being a father as he supported his sons with unwavering love, coaching their teams, cheering from the sidelines, and always sharing stories about their achievements. He had a special bond with his daughter-in-law, Dayna and treasured their time spent gardening and working together on home projects.
Dan had a special bond with his loyal service dog and best friend, Willo. He was known affectionately around the community as 'Willo's Dad." Dan found joy in the simple pleasures of life such as time at the beach, hunting, fishing, sitting by a warm fire and gazing at the stars. He had an eclectic love for music, ranging from jazz to classical and classic rock and country, but above all, he treasured time with his family.
Over the past several years, Dan's life became increasingly filled with joy and peace as he deepened his relationship with our Savior, Jesus Christ. His faith brought him great comfort and strength. He was a faithful member of Oak Ridge Baptist Church in Salisbury, Md. where he proudly served on the security and medical team, always accompanied by his dog "Willo". In October 2024, he publicly professed his faith through Holy Baptism, a moment of great significance and celebration for him and his family.
A celebration of Life will be held at a later date and the family will share details once arrangements are made. In lieu of flowers, please feel free to donate to the Wicomico Humane Society in Dan and Willo's names.
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