David Earl Nelson

“Those we love don’t go away. 

They walk beside us every day.”

David Earl Nelson, 72, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2026. Born October 14, 1953, in McAllen, Texas, David was the son of Harry Cornelius Nelson, Jr. and Mary Krogman Nelson.

He attended Mission High School, where he excelled in football and set a high school state records in shot put and discus. His athletic talent earned him a football scholarship to Stephen F. Austin State University and earned a degree from Texas Tech University. David worked many years in oilfield sales, as a truck driver, and in landscaping. An avid outdoorsman, he loved fishing, hunting, playing golf, and traveling—especially to the Texas Hill Country and Mexico. Known for his legendary barbecue and warm personality, David had a special way of bringing people together. His cheerful greeting, “What’s for supper?”, reflected his love for good food, good company, and life’s simple joys. Above all, David loved his family. His greatest happiness was his grandchildren, and he was always ready to offer support, laughter, and a helping hand.

He is lovingly remembered by his daughter, Caitlin Nelson Ardoin (Ryan); his son, William Nelson (Aimee); his cherished grandchildren, Isabella, Elodie, and Amelia Ardoin; his sister, Cynthia Nelson Sigman (Eddie); and his former wife and the mother of his children, Diana W. Nelson.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Stephen Nelson and Brian Nelson.

David’s family will gather privately to celebrate his life and honor his memory.