Obituary: David I. Nelson

David I. Nelson, 96, of Sturgeon Bay, died November 19, 2015, while at Hearthside Cordial Care in Sister Bay where he had resided the past month.

He was born August 4, 1919, in Green Bay, the son of the late David and Harriet (Pape) Nelson. After high school, David served his country for four-and-a-half years in the United States Army Air Force during WWII.

He owned and operated Bay Verte Machinery Company in Green Bay until his retirement in 1985.

The most important thing to David was his family. He especially took immeasurable pride in his grandsons and great-grandson. David was Johnny Appleseed reincarnated. He loved nature and photography, making his own pottery, painting, and raising horses. David was a great life teacher, a dreamer, Renaissance man, and health enthusiast.

Survivors include his four daughters, Antonia Nelson, Dr. Melissa Nelson, Lisa (Scott) Iverson, and Erika Nelson; grandsons, Joshua Nelson, Jesse Bonville, Colin Nelson-Pinkston, Kaden Nelson-Hein, Conor Iverson, Dylon Iverson; great-grandson, Parker Iverson; and special niece, Molly Newman.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Judith Olson-Nelson; and two sisters, Gwendolyn Nelson and Virginia Vadnais.

David had eyes that sparkled, a beautiful heart, and a smile that could light up a room. He will be deeply missed, and memories of him will be cherished.

A celebration of David’s life was held on Tuesday, November 24, 2015, at Huehns Funeral Home in Sturgeon Bay with Rev. Dr. Matthew R. Knapp, Sr., officiating. Military honors by the United States Army and AMVETS Post 51 followed.

Memorials may be given to the charity of your choice to honor David’s memory.

Condolences and guestbook signing may be offered at www.huehnsfuneralhome.com.