Nelson Daniels

Nelson Maurice Daniels, age 97, of Neodesha, Kansas, passed away on December 6, 2019.

Born June 13, 1922 in Benedict, Kansas, Nelson was full of unique stories from his time as a young Naval officer that he shared up until his death. These stories included being in school at Columbia University where he encountered lectures on the library steps from none other than Albert Einstein. He was also known for recounting his missions flying in foreign countries against enemy fighters, receiving orders from General George Patton, and being awarded the distinguished Navy Cross award- only for it to be revoked weeks later. Nelson’s time in the Navy took him to every continent on Earth, and included combat tours in WWII, Korea, Vietnam, and The Bay of Pigs conflict. He retired honorably from the US Navy as a Commander- Naval Aviator (Pilot) in 1971. His awards and decorations include: Purple Heart, Navy Unit Commendation, Navy Good Conduct (5), China Service, American Defense, American Campaign, Europe-African-Middle East, Asiatic-Pacific, World War II Victory, World War II Occupation Navy, National Defense (3), Korean Service, Vietnam Service, and Navy Sea Service Deployment.

After his service, Nelson and his family moved to Neodesha where he purchased Lynn Grain Co., which he ran until 1990.

Nelson was preceded in death by his wife Joy LaRue Daniels (1990). He is survived by his children: Patricia (Dusty), Linda (Donald), Nelson (Frances), and Russell; 15 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren.

Nelson will be greatly missed by his family, and all who knew him.

All are welcome for visitation to celebrate the life of Nelson at Loran Fawcett Funeral Home, 704 Indiana Street, Neodesha, KS, on Tuesday, Dec 10th from 5-7pm.

The interment will be held at Resthaven-Sunset Memorial Parks 1901 E Hubbard Road Ponca City, Oklahoma, Wednesday Dec 11th at 1pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer donations to the W.A. Rankin Memorial Library in Neodesha, KS. To leave the family a special message of condolence, please visit www.loranfawcettfuneralhome.com.