David Eugene Nelson

David Eugene Nelson died on Thursday, December 12, 2024 in Lady Lake, Florida surrounded by family. He was born on December 20, 1948 in Lafayette, IN. He graduated from Montmorenci High School in Montmorenci, Indiana in 1967. After graduation, he enlisted and proudly served in the United States Army. He lived and worked in Indiana for much of his life, raising a family there. He worked at Eli Lilly for many years before retiring in 2001. After retiring he moved to the Villages in Lady Lake, Florida where he remained active in many communities and committed to various philanthropic causes that were close to his heart. He was an active member in the Indiana Club of the Villages, Villages Parrot Head CLub, VFW, American Legion, the Forty and Eight, AMVETS, and the 25th Infantry Division Association. David proudly served in the 3rd Squadron 4th Cavalry Regiment of the 25th Infantry Division from 1968 to 1969 in Vietnam. He enlisted in the US Army in 1968 and served until being honorably discharged from active duty in 1971. He remained active in veteran communities throughout his life, including a stint as the president of the 25th Infantry Division Association. David is survived by his daughter Heide and son-in-law Craig Howard; grandsons Clayton, Christian (wife, Mikayla), and Camden Howard; brother Gary Nelson (wife, Darlene); and aunt Sonja Weigand (husband, Ronald). He is preceded in death by his mother June, stepfather Harold Smith, father Francis Nelson, and brother Randy Nelson. David is remembered by friends and family as a larger-than-life personality with a compassionate heart who always made sure to live each day to its fullest. Always the life of the party, he cherished the community and friendships made during his time in the Villages. He was known to his grandchildren affectionately as Papaw and was always a source of laughs and inspiration. Visitation will be held on Friday, December 20, 2024 from 9:30 am to 11:30 am at Beyers Funeral Home at 134 N Highway 27/441, Lady Lake, FL 32159. A graveside service will follow at 1:00 pm at Florida National Cemetery at 6502 SW 102nd Ave, Bushnell, FL 33513. In lieu of flowers, donations of cash can be made in support of American Legion Post #347 (Lady Lake).

David Eugene Nelson

December 20, 1948 - December 12, 2024