06/17/2026
Lion DON NELSON - July 30, 1935 – June 3, 2026
Lion Don joined the Spring Valley Lake Lions Club in 2002. Don was always an active member participating in whatever event was planned. He was instrumental in the success of the Charity Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament fundraiser that began in 2004. On the first Friday of every month Lion Don was there to help however he could.
Lion Don and his wife Lion Venus developed the High Desert Aluminum Pull Tab Challenge supporting the Inland Empire Ronald McDonald House. Under Don’s guidance he involved the local elementary schools encouraging students to participate in serving their community and helping others. The Pull Tab Challenge brought in thousands of pounds of aluminum pull-tabs over the years.
Donald Nelson was born on July 30, 1935, in Muskogee, Oklahoma. He lived a life defined by service, dedication, kindness, and a deep love for family, friends, and community.
After proudly serving his country in the United States Air Force Don received his bachelor’s degree at Arizona State University and later earned a Master’s degree from Azusa Pacific University. He devoted much of his life to education, teaching and coaching. 30 years at Chaffey High School in Ontario, California. Whether in the classroom, on the field, or mentoring young people, Don had a gift for encouraging others and leading by example. Even after retirement, his passion for education continued as Athletic Director at Victor Valley College.
After moving to Spring Valley Lake in 1991 he became deeply involved in the community he loved, serving in various leadership roles and giving generously of his time. Whether through the Spring Valley Lake Country Club, the Homeowners Association, the Victor Valley College Board of Trustees, or the Spring Valley Lake Lions Club, Don was always looking for ways to contribute and make a difference.
Beyond his accomplishments, Don will be remembered most for the person he was. He had a deep love for golf—not just the game itself, but everything that came with it: the patience, the quiet, the friendships, and the time spent doing something he truly enjoyed. It was one of the many things that brought him peace.
Those who knew Don knew him as a kind and gentle man with a calming presence. He possessed a quiet wisdom, a steady strength, and a genuine warmth that made people feel comfortable in his company. He never sought attention for himself, but his character and actions left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Don is survived by his beloved wife, Venus; his children, Tim, Roger, Stacy, Gina, Cristy and their spouses; ten grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. His family will forever cherish his love, his guidance, his dedication, and the countless little moments that made him so special.
His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched, the lessons he taught, and the example he set. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the Spring Valley Lake Lions Club. The donations can be made via Zelle to email [email protected]
