David C. Nelson

FENNIMORE - David C. Nelson, age 89, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loving family, on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.

Dave was born on November 9, 1936, in Flandreau, South Dakota. He graduated from Salem High School in Salem, South Dakota. Following graduation, he proudly enlisted in the United States Air Force. As a flight engineer on the C-47, Dave took great pride in his role and was privileged to fly around the world in service to his country. While stationed at March Air Force Base in Riverside, California, he met the love of his life, Patricia — a meeting that began a lifelong partnership.

Following his time in the service, Dave attended General Beadle State College in Madison, South Dakota, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Industrial Education. He began his career teaching industrial education in Buchanan, Michigan. While there, he came across an article announcing plans for a new vocational school seeking someone to build a welding program from the ground up in Fennimore, Wisconsin. Dave applied for and accepted the position. Seeing both opportunity and challenge, he designed and equipped two welding shops, developed curriculum, taught countless students, and even built a mobile welding trailer. His dedication to advancing the trade and mentoring students was recognized by the American Welding Society for his contributions to promoting the art and science of welding.

Later in his career, Dave continued his work at John Deere in Dubuque as a welding instructor and failure analyst, where he remained until his retirement. Dave always enjoyed being behind the wheel and loved driving on the many road trips he and Pat took together over the years. Following retirement, they especially looked forward to their semi-annual trips out west to Mesquite and Laughlin, Nevada — time spent traveling and simply enjoying the journey together. Retirement also allowed him to devote more time to his passion for designing and crafting ornamental iron pieces, combining skill, creativity, and precision in work that reflected his lifelong craftsmanship.

Dave was a faithful member of St. Peter Lutheran Church in Fennimore and was actively involved in numerous church committees over the years. His faith and service to his church community were important parts of his life.

He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Pat, and their three children: Deb McNett, Jim (Renee) Nelson, and Steve Nelson (Diana Wearing). He is further survived by seven grandchildren: Jason (Angie) McNett, Trisha (Richard) Toland, Megan McNett (Eric Zeis), Jerica (Seth) Henkel, Conner (Kaley) Nelson, Brynlee Nelson, and Braycee Nelson; 11 great-grandchildren; and siblings: Naomi Dorale, Robert Nelson, Richard Nelson, and Janice (Terry) Deal.

He was preceded in death by his parents, many relatives across the country, and most recently his son-in-law, Ron McNett Jr., of Monument, Colorado.

Dave expressed heartfelt gratitude to his wife and children for their loving care and support in his later years. He was also deeply thankful for the compassionate care provided by Grant County Hospice and their dedicated team and volunteers.

Dave was admired by his family for his service, his steadfast faith, his strong character, and his devoted leadership within his family. He will be dearly missed by all who were blessed to know and love him.

In lieu of flowers or plants, a memorial fund will be established in Dave’s name to support charities that were dear to his heart.