Don Nordell was born and raised in Turlock, California. He dedicated 35 years of service to the Turlock Irrigation District, beginning in 1967 and retiring in 2002 at the age of 58. Don married Cheryl (Johnson) Nordell on July 26, 1991, and built their life together.
Don was a proud and active member of the Turlock Lions Club for 55 years and also participated in SIRS, a local travel club. Known fondly as “Crash Nordie,” he competed in the Turlock Destruction Derby for many years, bringing excitement and spirit to the event. He had a passion for travel and adventure, enjoying RV trips that took him across the United States and Canada. Don also cherished time spent fishing and enjoying time with his family and friends. His big smile, humor, and dedication to community will be deeply missed.
Don is preceded in death by his parents Roy and Margaret (Bredenberg) Nordell and brother Steve Nordell.
Don is survived by his wife, Cheryl Nordell, children, Randy Nordell, Rick Nordell, Robyn Berdino, Erin Russell, Kristen Booth, and Scott Johnson, as well as 19 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Bette Harry.
A memorial service will be held on Monday, August 4 at 11 AM at Valley Hope Community Church, 610 W. Hawkeye Ave. in Turlock. A luncheon will follow the service.
Memorial donations can be made in Don’s memory to the Turlock Lions Club to support Lions Club community projects. Send donations to Turlock Lions Club, PO Box 512, Turlock, CA 95381.
1 Condolence for Don Nordell
Condolence(1)
Roger Parks says
July 23, 2025 at 4:50 pmMy condolences to the friends and family of Don, a friend to many also had a smile and positive attitude,he would call periodically to say hi and see how l was doing, l really appreciated Don’s concern for me , l’m sure he stayed in contact with many people through the years, He definitely was a people person who loved to help whenever he could. He lived a full life and shared it with as many people as he could. May our dear friend rest in peace .