Unmarked graves: Hero #38, Officer Donald O. Nielson, Oakland Police Department
On Thursday March 22nd, 1951 patrolman Donald O. Nielson was on-duty working as a solo motorcycle officer. He resided in the city of San Leandro, and made a trip home to check on his ailing wife. At approximately 7:30 pm he was on his way back to Oakland when he approached the intersection of 140th avenue and MacArthur boulevard. Neilson swerved to avoid hitting a turning motorist. He lost control of the motorcycle and was thrown 52 feet, striking his head on the pavement. He was transported to Merritt hospital and treated for skull fractures sustained in the accident. Neilson never regained consciousness and died three hours later.
Officer Nielsen was 28 years old and had received his appointment to the Department on February 14, 1947. He was survived by his wife (who was pregnant at the time of the accident) and two boys.
We found that Donald O. Nielson lies in an unmarked grave at Evergreen Cemetery in Oakland (photo below). Thanks to your donations, Officer Nielson now has a the grave marker he has long deserved.
