Donna L. Nelson, 79 of Grand Rapids, MN passed away Friday, July 11, 2025 at Grand Itasca Clinic and Hospital.

Donna was born March 17, 1946, in Grand Rapids, Minnesota to Donavon and Doris (Whipple) Woodall.  She graduated with the Class of 1964 from Grand Rapids High School and went on to earn her Bachelor of Arts degree in English and teachers training from the University of Minnesota Duluth.

Donna completed her student teaching in Duluth before accepting a teaching position in Hill City, Minnesota.  In October of 1968 she was united in marriage to Peter N. Nelson at Zion Lutheran Church in Grand Rapids.  They raised their son Aaron and resided their entire married life in Grand Rapids.

Over the years Donna was a faithful volunteer at Itasca Memorial Hospital in Grand Rapids and also ran a foster home for more than 40 children. She was a wonderful decorator, enjoyed playing bridge, and loved the many family vacations together travelling around the country.  In her youth she had many fond memories of working for her aunt and uncle's store on Side Lake near Hibbing.

She was preceded in death by mother and father, Donavon and Doris Woodall and her sister at infancy.

Donna is survived by her husband Peter of 57 years; son Aaron (Stacey) Nelson and grandchildren River, Ronan and Beckett, all of Bemidji, MN; nieces and nephews and many extended family and friends.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, July 27, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Rowe Funeral Home, Grand Rapids, MN with a memorial service to follow at 2:00 PM.