Danny David Nelson

Danny David Nelson, age 62, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 9, 2026. Born in 1964 to David and LaVonne Nelson, Danny was a lifelong resident of the Glenville area. A 1982 graduate of Glenville High School, he was raised on the family farm, a place that shaped his appreciation for the simple quiet of the country.

Danny found great peace in the joys of rural life; he spent countless hours at his window watching the birds and wildlife, and he took immense pride in tending to his many flowers and vibrant houseplants. In his earlier years, he was an avid baker, known especially for the various types of homemade breads he enjoyed sharing with others.

Danny’s life was marked by both simple joys and profound challenges. For much of Danny's life, he fought a private battle with alcoholism. It is important to acknowledge that this was not a choice, but a lifelong illness that Danny grappled with every day. While the obstacles created by addiction at times impacted his lifestyle and distanced him from many relationships, his heart remained kind. He held a deep, quiet love for those no longer a part of his daily life, sincerely wishing them the very best from afar.

In his final years, Danny found strength in the support of his family. He was especially close with his sister, Mick, who served as a source of grace and compassion as his journey came to a close. Danny expressed endless gratitude to Mick, his father David, and Mick’s entire family for the help and kindness they extended to him.

Danny is reunited through death with his mother, LaVonne Nelson; his infant brother; his beloved cat, Sammy; and his grandparents, Donald and Bessie Nelson, and Mildred and Orley Allen.

He is survived by his father, David Nelson; his sister, Michelle "Mick" Rayman and her husband, Jeff; his niece, Cassie Rayman; his nephew, Chase Rayman and his wife, Jenny; and his great-nephew, Braylon Rayman.

A private family service will be held to honor Danny’s life and the peace he has now found.

The family extends a special thank you to his hospice care team, specifically the two women who became Danny’s self-proclaimed best friends. Their unique bond brought him immense joy and the gift of closure; their friendship was a light that helped him find peace and forgiveness in his final days. Because of this, in lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Danny’s memory to St. Croix Hospice. Their support was a cornerstone of Danny’s well-being, providing comfort and strength to the family during his final journey.