David Rolland Nelson

David Rolland Nelson passed away at the age of 66 on January 19, 2026, in his home in Fort Mill, South Carolina, after 22+ years of living with Huntington’s Disease. He lived a life filled with love, determination, adventure and struggle.

Born in Oak Park, Illinois, on February 26, 1959, to Rolland and Eunice Nelson, Dave’s childhood revolved around family and church, horses, guitars, and books. After high school Dave attended St. Benedictine College for his undergraduate studies. While attending college he simultaneously worked for UPS to pay his entire tuition through college and medical school.

Dave then attended Rush Medical College where he obtained his MD. He went on to do a residency in radiology at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics and then trained for a fellowship in Neuroradiology at Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix, Arizona. He was a member of several medical groups, practicing radiology until 2008. Dave met his wife, Ann, at the University of Iowa Hospital, and they were married in November 1989. They have two daughters, Claire and Audrey.

Some of Dave’s passions included playing guitar, golfing, traveling, cars, and gathering with family and friends. He will be remembered for his love and devotion to his family, his quiet and gentle demeanor, a hearty laugh, a strong work ethic, and a generous heart, always giving of his time and resources to help family, friends and those in need.

Dave was predeceased by his father, Rolland, and three younger sisters, Joy Beth, Ruth, and Sarah.

He is survived by his wife, Ann; daughters, Claire and Audrey; and mother, Eunice Nelson; as well as loving in-laws, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, February 6, 2026, at 3:00 pm at Lakeshore Christian Fellowship, 130 Shoreline Parkway, Tega Cay, South Carolina. Following the service, family and friends are invited to gather in the Multipurpose Room for a reception as we celebrate Dave’s life and his well-known love of Mexican food.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to SpeakUpmag.org in Dave’s memory.