Donald 'Don' M. Belson

Donald 'Don' M. Belson

1950 – 2026

HOLSTEIN - Donald "Don" M. Belson, 76, of Holstein, passed away on Thursday, July 15, 2026 at the University of Nebraska Medical Center of Omaha, Nebraska. A visitation will be held on Thursday, July 23, 2026 from 5-7 p.m. at the Nicklas D. Jensen Funeral Home of Holstein. The Nicklas D. Jensen Funeral Home of Holstein is in charge of the arrangements.

Donald was born on May 23, 1950 to Marion and Bernadine (McKenna) Belson. He grew up near Galva, where he graduated from Galva Community School before earning a degree in Business Accounting and Business Education from Buena Vista College in Storm Lake.

In 1978, Donald proudly entered in a farming partnership with his father, Marion. Farming remained one of his lifelong passions, and he took great pride in caring for the land and continuing the family tradition.

Later in life, Donald answered another calling by returning to college to earn credentials in Special Education and Guidance Counseling. He began his career with River Valley Community School during the 1994-1995 school year as a high school special education teacher in the resource room. After earning his master's degree in School Counseling, he became the school counselor for grades 5-12 and later served students in grades 7-12. Donald also directed the alternative school program, coached golf, helped organize homecoming parades and track meets, and became known for enthusiastically participating in homecoming lip-sync performances and school skits. His creative costumes, sense of humor, and willingness to have fun made him a favorite among students and colleagues. He dedicated 21 years of service to River Valley Community School before retiring in 2015.

Donald also shared his love of learning by teaching at Iowa Central Community College and by teaching psychology for several years through Western Iowa Tech Community College.

A faithful member of Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church in Holstein, Donald was an active member of the Men's Club and found great joy in serving his parish community.

Donald loved the thrill of discovering hidden treasures. He rarely missed an opportunity to attend an auction, browse an online sale, or stop at a garage sale. He especially enjoyed working on the farm and searching for unique finds that others might have overlooked.

His love of classic automobiles led him to become active with SERPACI, where he proudly displayed his cars at area shows. He also supported the Northwest Iowa Experimental Farms, an organization that held special meaning because his father, Marion, was one of its original board members.

Donald enjoyed traveling, especially the many family vacations to San Diego, California. He loved the ocean and was always willing to try something new, from boogie boarding in the waves to even giving surfing a try. Closer to home, he loved spending time in Okoboji with family.

Donald was a proud father to his daughter, Cindy Nehman and her husband, Logan, of Correctionville, and a devoted grandfather to Timothy Belson.

Nothing brought Donald greater happiness than being Grandpa. He never missed one of Tim's sporting events or school activities. The two shared countless hours fishing and golfing together, creating memories that will be treasured forever.

Donald also enjoyed following Cindy and Tim on RAGBRAl each summer, proudly serving as their support driver. Along the route, he happily offered rides and assistance to other cyclists whenever they needed a helping hand, making friends wherever he went.

In 2001, Donald became involved with the Sioux City Bandits Indoor Football Team, volunteering with game-day operations before purchasing the team in October 2022. Owning the Bandits wasn't just about football—it was about creating another opportunity for himself, Cindy, and Tim to spend time together while supporting athletes and the local community.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents, Bernadine, who passed away from cancer on Feb. 4, 1980, and Marion, who passed away on Oct. 16, 1987, following a brief stay at the Good Samaritan Home. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Robert Belson, who died of leukemia on Dec. 29, 1988.

Left to cherish his memory are his daughter, Cindy (Belson) Nehman and her husband Logan of Correctionville; his treasured grandson, Timothy Belson; his sister, Sue Belson of Holstein; along with extended family, friends, former students, colleagues, and many whose lives were enriched by his kindness and encouragement.

Donald will be remembered for his gentle spirit, quick smile, witty comments, generous heart, and his love for Beach Boys songs. He had a gift for making people feel welcome, whether through a conversation at an auction, encouragement in a school hallway, laughter during a homecoming skit, or a ride for a cyclist on RAGBRAI. His legacy lives on in the students he inspired, the family he cherished, the community he served, and the countless memories shared with those fortunate enough to know him.

Online condolences can be made at nicklasdjensenfh.com