Obituary of Donald Nielsen

Donald Nielsen, age 81, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday August 9. Don was a devoted family man, who loved deeply and spent quality time with his wife, four kids, eleven grandkids, his large extended family and many good friends.

Known as “Red” to many of his old friends, Don was born, raised, lived and worked in Manchester until moving to Bolton Lake in 2003. He worked at Carter Chevrolet for 42 years. He believed in hard work, loyalty, and being kind. Don was a Veteran of the Viet Nam war and received the Army Commendation Medal. He was a helpful volunteer for the MHS Class of 1960 Reunion committee and his morning golf league at Twin Hills. He loved rooting for the UConn basketball teams, but saved his best cheering for his kids’ and grandkids’ sports teams and performances. He had a sense of adventure and exciting experiences flying in small planes, white water rafting, spelunking caves, golfing at Pebble Beach, and travel to Alaska, Ireland and many other places.

Friends and family are invited to join a celebration of Don’s life on Sunday, August 20, 2023 at the Manchester Country Club from 2-5pm.

Don is survived by his wife of 56 years, Joyce Nielsen; his four children and their families, David and Stephanie Nielsen of Manchester, Christine and Scott Watrous of Virginia, Erik Nielsen of Manchester, and Adam and Hendriana Nielsen of Manchester; his sister Joanne and husband Bruce Warren of Framingham, MA; and beloved niece Kathy and husband Don Cusson of Ellington. He was predeceased by his parents Karl and Margaret “Peg” Nielsen, and his brother Richard “Dick” Nielsen.

In lieu of flowers, please consider giving to Connecticut Children's (Greatest Need Children’s Fund or Child and Family Support Services) in memory of Don Nielsen. Gifts may be made online at www.connecticutchildrensfoundation.org. To make a gift by mail, please send checks payable to: Connecticut Children's Foundation, Inc., Attn: Memorial Gifts, PO Box 412901, Boston, MA 02241-2901. Please include Don’s name in the memo line.