AMERICA’S last living fighter ace from World War II has died at 103.
Donald McPherson was a fearless Navy pilot who took down five enemy planes in the Pacific.
He passed away on August 14 in his hometown of Adams, Nebraska, which is about an hour and a half outside Omaha.
McPherson is remembered for his “compassionate and humble nature,” as highlighted in his heartfelt obituary, which emphasizes his lifelong dedication to his family, faith, and nation.
“Don was part of ‘The Greatest Generation,’ a term made popular by journalist Tom Brokaw’s best-selling book, according to his family.
“As Winston Churchill once said, ‘Courage is rightly esteemed the first of human qualities because it is the quality that guarantees all others.’
“Donald was a living embodiment of this sentiment.”
McPherson joined the army only when he was 18.
He flew fighter aircraft known as F6F Hellcats off the deck of the USS Essex during air battles in World War II.
The Hellcat was nicknamed the “Zero Killer” for its dominance over Japan.
McPherson called the Hellcat a rugged and forgiving aircraft, capable of absorbing heavy fire and still bringing pilots home.
He earned the remarkable title of “ace” after chalking up five kills in the skies over East Asia.
The hero was given three Distinguished Flying Crosses and a rarely awarded Congressional Gold Medal for his service.
He was a respected member of the Adams VFW and American Legion, and had been a Scout Master for Troop 280.
McPherson flew missions during the kamikaze attacks on US naval fleets and bravely intercepted Japanese fighters mid-air.
In one chilling account, the ace described a mission where he shot down two Japanese planes before discovering a bullet hole in his vessel.
At the time, he told himself, “Maybe God is not done with me.”
In another mission, the eagle eyed solder said that he took down two Japanese planes after noticing them on low water.
HUMBLE WARRIORS
But loved ones say the humble veteran never bragged about his battles.
Instead, McPherson wanted to be remembered as “a man of faith” and a devoted family man.
After the war, he swapped combat missions for small-town life.
He worked as a farmer, rural mail carrier, coached kids’ baseball, and served as a Scoutmaster.
In his free time, he woodworked, welded, hunted, and went fishing.
The local ball field even bears his name: McPherson Field.
He is survived by his two daughters, son, and many grandchildren.
Donald McPherson’s obituary
“Donald Melvin McPherson, a compassionate and humble individual, peacefully passed away on August 14, 2025, at 103 years old. Born on May 25, 1922, in Adams, Nebraska, Donald led an extraordinary life committed to his family, his beliefs, and his nation. His path was marked by notable courage and steadfast dedication, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him. He belonged to ‘The Greatest Generation,’ a term popularized by Tom Brokaw’s acclaimed book. As Winston Churchill famously stated, ‘Courage is rightly esteemed the first of human qualities because it is the one that guarantees all others.’ Donald truly embodied this idea.
“Donald’s life masterfully balanced hard work and enthusiasm. He spent much of his life as a farmer and over 20 years as a rural letter carrier, immersing himself in the Nebraska landscape with a heart committed to the soil. His hobbies, which included woodworking, welding, hunting, and fishing, reflected his love for hard work and skillfulness. Yet, the brave spirit within him propelled him to notable heights. He served as a World War II Ace Navy Pilot and was recognized as the last surviving WWII Ace fighter pilot in America. His bravery and commitment were honored with the Congressional Gold Medal, underscoring his exceptional service. His love for his nation was matched only by his devotion to family and faith. Donald wed Thelma Johnston, his true love, on August 17, 1944, in Daytona Beach, Florida. They were blessed with four children in their life together. He was a devoted and lifelong member of the Adams United Methodist Church, where his faith took shape through various leadership positions.
“In spite of his impressive accomplishments, Donald remained humble and down-to-earth. He was respected within the Adams VFW and American Legion and served as a Scout Master for Troop 280. His community involvement extended beyond military contributions; he organized, promoted, and coached the Adams Summer Baseball and Softball Leagues. His relentless effort to nurture the younger generation was a testament to his compassionate nature. Don was a passionate fan of Husker football, baseball, and softball. He is survived by daughters Donna (Robin) Mulder of Lincoln and Beth Delabar of Adams, and his son, Reverend Dean (Susie) McPherson of Omaha; along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel and Minnie (Petz) McPherson, his beloved wife, Thelma, son Steve, grandsons Robert Delabar Jr. and Matthew Donald Delabar, and son-in-law, Robert Delabar Sr.; as well as by his siblings, including an infant brother.
“Donald’s remarkable life will be celebrated on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at 11:00 AM, at the United Methodist Church in Adams, Nebraska. The service will be available via live stream for those unable to attend. Afterward, a lunch will be served at the church at 12:00 PM. Donald will be interred with military honors and a flyover at Highland Cemetery in Adams at 2:00 PM. Friends and family are welcome to attend the public visitation on Monday, August 18, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Griffiths-Hovendick Chapel in Beatrice, where the family will greet visitors from 6–7:30 PM. Memorial contributions have been designated for the United Methodist Church in Adams and the American Heart Association, with arrangements overseen by the funeral home.
“In memory of our beloved Donald, we invite you to share your favorite memories, stories, or photographs, and watch his service and video tribute on his memorial page on www.ghchapel.com. Let us remember and celebrate this humble and courageous man who touched our lives in countless ways. These services have been entrusted to the Griffiths-Hovendick Chapel in Adams.”
