Douglas Wesley Nelson

Douglas Wesley Nelson (81) of Oconto Falls, WI passed away on March 23, 2026. He was born to Earl and Willabelle Nelson on February 28, 1945. Brother to Eric and sister Carla.

Doug was married to Donna (Dykes) Nelson on June 21,1969 in Wauwatosa, WI following their time together at the University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh. 

UW-Oshkosh awarded Doug a bachelor's degree in music education. The couple then moved to Goodman, WI where Doug started his career as Band Director for the Goodman School District. 

Doug and Donna began raising a family with 2 sons - Michael and David.  Doug is a grandfather to Linnea, who he cherished deeply.

The family relocated to Oconto Falls in 1976 when a new career opportunity arose at Oconto Falls High School. Nobody knew at the time, but the relationship Doug was about to have with this community was just getting started.

During his 25-year tenure, Doug took the value of music education and performance to new levels. His bands performed regularly and did it all with "A Touch of Class". That was always his running motto. He ran his program with drill sergeant precision, but with compassion to listen to his students and guide them through their 4 years of high school. He didn't care how great a musician you were, but Doug pushed all to meet their potential. He wanted all students to get something from the experience of being a part of an ensemble. Concert, Pep and Jazz bands all offered something to his students.

Doug gave his students the opportunity to shine with performance in and out of the community. In Oconto Falls, we were all treated to Memorial Day and Falls Fun Fest parades along with the Christmas and Spring concerts. Doug truly loved his Pep Band for the swagger and energy they would bring to your high school sporting events. They were loud and full of energy, hyping the crowd and entertaining with "themed" dress up. Putting over 100 kids on the stage they performed at football, basketball, volleyball and wrestling for 25 years. Jazz Band scratched a different itch, one that was soulful and rhythmic. Jazz balanced his concert and pep bands with different styles and composition.

Outside of Oconto Falls, his students were playing for Solo and Ensembles. Traveling to marching competitions in Madison and Chicago. He brought the bands to Washington DC and Disney World. Playing halftime at Packer games in Lambeau Field. The band also was able to perform during State Football in Madison at Camp Randall - to which one observer told him, "That is the 2nd best band to ever play on this field."

When Doug retired in 2001, it was shared that he had taught 1,147 students in Oconto Falls High School.

The last 25 years have been full of adventures with Donna, family and friends. Doug was easy to get along with and could make a new friend anywhere he went. Anywhere.

He truly loved his network, and it revolved around his passions- whether softball, golf, sailing, really any sport, and traveling with their camper. Donna has always been with Doug on their adventures. They were both up for just about anything. Doug also loved his Friday visits with the retired teachers.

We extend our appreciation to the Oconto Falls EMS. Your quick response gave our family the opportunity to have some time with Doug. We also thank the staff of St. Vincent Hospital in Green Bay for their compassion and care - your Team was amazing.

It is with profound grief that we move forward without Doug's guiding light. He wouldn't want us to be sad. He would want all of us to keep music in our lives and in our schools. Music offers our hearts and minds an expression and outlet that heals the soul.

Doug - We love you.

**Please check back for updates regarding services to be held in the future.