David Loren Nelson

David Loren Nelson, 69, of Maple Grove, Minnesota, passed away unexpectedly on February 23, 2026, in Gilbert, Arizona.
Born on December 6, 1956, in Salt Lake City, Utah, he moved to Silver City, New Mexico, in his high school years and graduated from Silver High School in 1975. He attended college at the University of New Mexico and graduated with a degree in Agronomy from New Mexico State University. He obtained his masters and PhD from the University of Minnesota. David went on to work in the seed industry.
David was known for his humor, kindness and generosity. He loved music, fishing, boating and golfing. He was a huge sports fan—in particular the Minnesota Vikings. Nothing brought him more joy than his children and grandchildren.
David is survived by his wife Cindy (nee Nevins), his sons Erik (Brandi) and Jared as well as his two granddaughters Madeline and Leora. He leaves behind two brothers, Kim Nelson and Joel (Tami) Nelson as well as nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind his Friday night happy hour friends. David was preceded in death by his parents Grant and Marilyn Nelson, his sister Kristie Clevenger, and his brother Kirk Nelson.
A Celebration of David’s life will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association (http://www.alz.org).