David 'The Bear' Duane Nelson, 55

David "The Bear" Nelson, 55, of Petersburg, Ill., died Saturday, Sept. 3, 2011, in Chicago, Ill. 

David was born in Minneapolis, Minn., Oct. 22, 1955, the son of Donald and Deane Nelson. David spent many summers with his grandparents Ernest and Hannah Nelson in Gonvick. He grew up and went to school in Excelsior attended Minnetonka High School graduating in 1972.

David entered the United States Navy and served our country for three years during the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged in 1975. David received an associate's degree in the construction field. David was president of the Nelson Wall Systems Inc. located in Sherman, Ill., which he owned and operated.

David met Terri Brandenburger in Minneapolis in 1987. They lived in many places and for the last 17 years, they have lived in Illinois. They traveled many roads together and made many friends. David was an accomplished fisherman, an avid golfer and an experienced bow hunter. He was also an officer of several motorcycle organizations. David had an enormous passion for life and a strong belief in Jesus Christ our Savior.

He is survived by his wife, Terri Brandenburger, of Petersburg; son Jonathon (Brittany) Nelson of Hopkins, Minn.; daughter Naomi (Ben) Kettner of Nicollet, Minn.; granddaughter Samantha Kettner of Nicollet; expected grandson due in October; parents Donald and Deane Nelson of Coeur d'Alene; brothers Donald (Kristin) Nelson Jr. of Scituate, Mass., and Daniel (Amanda) Nelson of Coeur d'Alene; and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles special uncle, Kenneth Nelson, of Minneapolis; all of David's beloved pets; and wonderful friends and brothers.

He was preceded in death by his, paternal grandparents, Ernest and Hannah Nelson; and maternal grandparents Fred and Tenia Sorensen.

Memorials preferred to Friends of the SLU Liver Center.

Funeral services were held Friday, Sept. 9, 2011, at Samhold Lutheran Church in Gonvick, Minn. Reverend Jill Torgerson officiated. Visitation was held one hour prior to the service at the church.

Interment will be at Samhold Lutheran Cemetery in Gonvick. David's final resting place will be in our hearts. The Cease Family Funeral Home, Bagley, Minn., assisted with the arrangements. Military rites will be accorded by the Gonvick American Legion Post No. 304. A celebration of Bear's life will be held at a later date in Illinois.

Messages of condolence may be sent to ceasefuneralhome.com.