David John Nelson

David Nelson, also known as “Swede,”passed away on May 2nd, 2025, at his daughter’s home in Mesquite, NV.

David was born at his parents’ home on Green Ridge, outside of Phippsburg, Colorado. He attended school in Phippsburg until his family moved to Yampa, where he completed his education.

He worked as a ranch hand, snowplow operator for the state, spent many years on the dragline crew at Edna Coal Mine outside Oak Creek, and later as a truck driver hauling logs for Hassig Logging. He always found time to help others with his track hoe.

While working at a ranch in Wyoming, he met his wife, Marilyn. They were blessed with two daughters, Janet and Charlene.

David’s interests included racing and riding snowmobiles, fishing, hunting, playing blackjack, traveling, and—mostly watching, but in his younger years—participating in rodeos.

David is survived by his sister, Mary Lovato; his daughters, Janet Rossi (Mitchell Rossi) and Charlene Regan; and grandchildren Matthew Regan, Carl Rossi, and Mattie Rossi. He was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Marguerite Nelson, and his sisters, June Nelson and Sadie Borroel.

He will be greatly missed by his family, many lifelong friends, and the strangers who quickly became friends.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date, to be determined by the family.

In lieu of flowers, be like “Swede”—lend a helping hand to someone in need.