Donald Sears Nelson passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family in Seattle on Oct. 24, 2011 at the age of 77.

Don was born in Quincy, Ill., on July 18, 1934.

His parents Harold and Helen later moved to Seattle and settled on Queen Anne. His mother said he was a very active child, “Like living with a keg of dynamite — always into something.” He had a love of cars from a very young age and raced them all over Queen Anne and Ballard.

Don served in the Navy and retired from Safeway after 41 years. Later, he went to work for Ron and Rick Jay at Process Heating Co.

He loved to golf, fish, and spend time with his family at his beach house on Whidbey Island. He also enjoyed watching baseball, football and golf, but his greatest love was watching his grandkids play their sports.

Don is survived by his wife of 44 years, Marilyn, whom he adored and called “Darling”; sons Michael (wife Renee) and Scott (wife Vicki); daughter Julie (husband Keith); and four beautiful grandchildren who adored their Papa; Brenton, Kari, Cole and Cade; and his naughty orange tabby cat, Dora.

There will be a celebration of his life at 11 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 3, at St. Matthew’s in Seattle (1240 127th St., Seattle, WA 98125). A reception will be held immediately following the service in the reception hall next to the church.

In lieu of sending flowers, please consider a gift to Swedish Cancer Institute. Website: community.swedish.org/SSLPage.aspx?pid=320.