In lieu of flowers, Memorial contributions may be made at the link below to Fishers United Methodist Church for the replacement of the lift at the Come To Me Food Pantry, one of the final projects Dave was actively and passionately supporting.
memorial donations
David Karl Nelson, 77, of Fishers, Indiana passed away suddenly on Friday, July 10, 2026. He was born on June 2, 1949, to Maynard and Helen (Kolander) Nelson in Chicago, Illinois. His parents precede him in death.
Dave was a devoted follower of God and a larger-than-life man of boundless energy, curiosity, and determination who was always pursuing a new challenge, project, or adventure. Throughout his life, he embraced a wide variety of careers and interests, leaving a lasting impact on the people and communities around him. He worked as a manager for True Value Hardware, owned and operated Sylvan Green Nursery and Landscaping, served in sales for Jostens and Scholastic, taught music and worked as a substitute teacher, and ultimately found great joy in his role as Building Manager at Fishers United Methodist Church. Whatever the job, Dave brought enthusiasm, creativity, and a strong work ethic.
A proud patriot and devoted American, Dave deeply valued the freedoms and opportunities this country provided. He was equally proud of his Swedish heritage, cherishing the traditions, history, and family roots that helped shape who he was. His love of history extended beyond his own family. He spent countless hours researching the Eastland Disaster of 1915, honoring the legacy of his grandfather, Elmer, whose extraordinary courage during the tragedy helped save countless lives.
Dave’s passions were as varied as his talents. An accomplished drummer, he shared his love of music by playing in several bands throughout his life. He also enjoyed landscaping, designing parade floats, antiquing, and spending time on the golf course, where he combined his love of the game with organizing numerous golf fundraisers and tournaments. He was a lifelong learner and storyteller whose enthusiasm was contagious. Known for his ingenuity and determination, Dave was always creating, building, improving and finding solutions to impossible problems.
Above all else, Dave treasured the people in his life. Whether lending a helping hand, enjoying time together or giving “bonus gifts”, he found his greatest happiness in the company of family and friends. His adventurous spirit, generous heart, and unforgettable presence will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.
He is survived by his wife, Rosalyn (Workman) Nelson, his partner in life for 57 years, whom he loved deeply and for whom he was a devoted provider and protector; Daughter, Dana (Steve) Vlach, son, David K. (Heather) Nelson Jr., daughter, Lorie (Troy) Richards, grandchildren, Kate Vlach, Zac, Emma and Abby Nelson, Leah Richards.
Services will be held at Fishers United Methodist Church, 9691 East 116th Street in Fishers, Indiana on Friday, July 17, at 2pm, with Troy Richards officiating. Visitation will be from 12pm to the time of service at the church. There will be a meal and celebration of life to follow the service at Fishers United Methodist Church. A private graveside service for the immediate family will be at Highland Cemetery.