David A. Nelson

Feb. 15, 1961 – July 24, 2025

David A. Nelson, 64, of McKinney, Texas, unexpectedly passed away on July 24, 2025. 

He was born on February 15, 1961, in Aberdeen, South Dakota, to his loving parents Richard Duane Nelson and Dorothy Maria (Schlecht) Nelson.

David grew up in Lovell and attended Lovell High School. A man of integrity and ambition, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and later a Master of Business Administration from Golden Gate University in San Francisco, California.

On July 21, 1984, David married the love of his life, Renee Shute, in South Lake Tahoe, California. Together, they built a strong, adventure-loving, faith-centered family and shared over four decades of unwavering love and friendship. They had just celebrated their 41st anniversary.

David proudly served his country for eight years in the United States Air Force. He completed pilot training at Vance Air Force Base in Enid, Oklahoma. He was stationed at Mather Air Force Base in Sacramento, California, and Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He was able to travel to many places around the world while serving his country. His distinguished service flying in support of combat operations in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm earned him an Air Medal.

In 1991, David transitioned to a 34-year career as a commercial airline pilot with American Airlines. A distinguished aviator, he became a captain of the Boeing 737 and earned the respect and admiration of his peers.

David was a devoted Christian. His commitment to community service was evident in all that he did. He was always willing to lend a helping hand. He loved sharing his love of Christ with others, and he never met a stranger. He was a generous man, who was quick to make others laugh and found joy in all he did.

He was a loyal friend, a profoundly devoted husband, a loving father and a proud “Bampa.” His kindness, care and joyful spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

“Hey, Man,” he had a wicked sense of humor, he was warm and fun loving, and he was “Groovy, Baby.” He was multi-lingual, speaking fluent Z-Guyeezz. He’d mix you a drink that’ll “double the flavuhh.” Always ready to “Shake and Bake.” He lived his life turned up to 11. Rock on!

He was preceded in death by his parents, Rich and Dorothy Nelson, and his niece, Kayla Green.

David is survived by his beloved wife, Renee Nelson, of McKinney, Texas; children Kylie (Chet) Selz of Texas, Eric (Molly) Nelson of St. Louis, Missouri, and Niki (Brandon) Karlis  of Texas; cherished granddaughter Lily Selz of Texas; siblings Stuart (Kathy) Nelson and family of Wheatland, Wyoming, Patricia Nelson and family of Oxford, Mississippi, and Susan (Brian) Green and family of Lovell; aunt Marilyn Harbuck of Arizona; and a full extended family. 

David’s legacy of love, service and laughter lives on in the hearts of his family, friends neighbors and -- up in the clear skies.

A funeral service will be held Saturday, Aug. 2, at 4 p.m. at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas.