David Nelson, 78

David W. Nelson, 78, passed away from pulmonary fibrosis on November 16, 2011, at his home.

David was born July 17, 1933 in Alexandria to Norris and Agnes (Anderson) Nelson. He was baptized and confirmed at First English Lutheran Church and attended Alexandria Public Schools.

Dave was drafted into the armed services and served in the Army Mountain Battalion in Austria during the Korean War in 1953 and 1954. He then served in the active reserve and was later discharged with honors.

On July 2, 1956, Dave was united in marriage to Ruth Weisel Nelson in Alexandria. To this union they were blessed with two daughters.

Dave was employed in several places before going to work at Alexandria Light and Power in 1957. He held a number of positions there before becoming general manager. He retired December 31,1993.

Throughout his career, Dave held several state and national positions involving public power associations. He was president of the Minnesota Municipal Utilities Association for one year, and served on the Pope Douglas Solid Waste Management Board since its inception. He was active on the Runestone Museum Board, County Planning and Zoning Board, LaGrand Township Board, and Douglas County Fair Board.

Dave's greatest joy in life was spending time with his family and friends. He also loved to travel, enjoying time in warmer climates during winter months. He enjoyed playing golf, woodworking, and making frequent visits to town where he knew and talked to seemingly everyone. Reading non-fiction books and studying maps greatly intrigued him. Dave loved beautiful sunrises and sunsets as much as anyone could.

His favorite travel destination was, by far, the Holy Land. He and Ruth were blessed to visit there twice. Dave had a strong, unshakable faith in the Lord; he always said, “I know where I’m going.” He was always most concerned that his children and grandchildren live a life of integrity and trust in God.

Dave is survived by his loving wife, Ruth; daughters, Patricia (Jay) Loeppke of Willmar and Linda (Larry) Radi of Billings, Montana; grandchildren, Jayson, Jenna, Krista, Michael and Kaitlyn; brothers, Dick (Ardell) and Al (Bev), both of Alexandria; sister, Marlene (Tom) Thompson of Alexandria; aunt, Esther Schultz of Alexandria; and many nephews, nieces and cousins.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Norris and Agnes; and sister-in-law, Kay (Dick) Nelson.

A funeral service was held for Dave Saturday, November 19 at First Lutheran Church in Alexandria with the Rev. John Peshek officiating. Music was provided by organist, Randy Morken; soloist, Annetta Knowles; and violinist, Jenna Loeppke. Military honors were provided by Alexandria American Legion Post 87, Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 936 and the Minnesota National Honor Guard. Interment was at Kinkead Cemetery in Alexandria. Casket bearers were Jay Loeppke, Larry Radi, Jayson Loeppke, Michael Radi, Krista Radi, and Kaitlyn Radi. Honorary casket bearers were all of Dave’s loyal family, friends and co-workers.

Memorials may be directed to the American Lung Association, Hospice of Douglas County, Mount Carmel Ministries, Lutheran World Relief Fund, or charity of choice.

Arrangements are with Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria; www.andersonfuneral.net.

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