Darrell Eugene Nelson, age 68, of Brookings, passed away at home under hospice care on Sunday, April 18, 2021. Visitation to greet the family will be from 6-7 P.M. on Friday, April 23, 2021, at Abundant Life Church with a Celebration of Darrell's life at 7 P.M. also at the Church. Eidsness Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Darrell Nelson was born in Volga, SD on March 24, 1953, to Curtis and Doris (Atkins) Nelson.  He grew up on a farm south of Brookings, SD.  Darrell attended country school for five years, before attending Aurora Public School for one year.  Then he attended Brookings Public School, which he graduated from in 1971.  After high school,  Darrell went to South Dakota State University, where in 1975 he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Animal Science.  After graduation, he enjoyed touring Europe for a month before returning to work on the family farm full time.

Nearly 43 years ago, on May 27, 1978, Darrell married Darleen Vogel.  Over the next several years five children joined the family:  Darred, Darren, Darci, Darres, and Darby.  Darrell continued to farm and often took the children to work with him.  He taught them many lessons, including about how to seek and follow Jesus and keep him as their main focus in all situations.  He also taught them about the importance of a good work ethic.

Darrell was a devout follower of Christ.  He was known to read the entire Bible yearly, and he studied the Old Testament diligently.  He was also an active church member.  He served on many different boards, including acting as the Sunday School Superintendent.  He also taught Sunday School for over 45 years, volunteered in the children's ministry, and chaperoned countless youth trips, where he taught many youth members how to ski.  He looked forward to the youth ski trip each year.  He enjoyed mission trips too, serving in Nicaragua and Allen, SD as the hands and feet of Jesus.

Darrell was also active in other areas of the community too.  He was a member of the Brookings County Pork Producers, and as the president of the organization, he grilled pork loin for many occasions and thousands of people.  He also served for 23 years on the Brookings County Zoning Board.  This is a job he took very seriously, praying about how to vote on each request.

Darrell was known as Grandpa D by his loving grandchildren.  Darrell enjoyed playing with the grandchildren and teasing them.  He loved having them ride with him in the tractor, especially during harvest.  He shared his snacks and sang silly songs to pass the time.  He could also be found, quite frequently, with children on his lap listening to him read story books.

Because of his teaching and example, Darrell's family and friends were imparted with wisdom, knowledge, and many cherished memories.  From our worldly perspective, Darrell's departure is too soon, but because he believed that Jesus paid the penalty for our sin, we are confident that he is now rejoicing in the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Darrell was preceded in death by his mother, Doris, grandparents, brother-in-law, and several unborn grandchildren.  He is survived by his wife, Darleen, his five children and their spouses, 14 grandchildren, two step-grandchildren, his father, Curtis, two brothers, and a sister.  Darrell will be greatly missed by many family and friends, who were impacted by his faith in Christ and love for people.