David Nelson farmed near Keene in Otonabee Township, first on his family’s dairy farm and later on his adjoining farm. He was a Peterborough 4-H member, winning the Dairy Award, and was a Peterborough County Junior Farmer. David was an active Peterborough County Federation of Agriculture and Peterborough Soil and Crop Association member. He took great pride in his Nelsdale Farm’s cash cropping and custom work endeavors. 

In addition to farming and a career as a draftsman at General Electric, David served in local politics for 44 consecutive years. He was a Township Councilor, Deputy Reeve, and Reeve. He sat on County Council and served two terms as Peterborough County Warden. His political activities allowed him to provide a farm-informed perspective to both federal and provincial members of parliament on a wide range of issues and concerns.  

He was a Lang Pioneer Village Museum champion and, from 2003 to 2018, was active in the museum’s advisory committee.

David was a member of Keene United Church. He served on township committees for Seniors Affordable Housing, Recreation, the Historical Society, Keene Pumpkin Festival, the Otonabee Region Conservation Authority, and the Greater Peterborough Area Economic Development Corporation. 

David received numerous honors, including a Public Service Award from the Peterborough Civic Hospital’s Board of Governors in 1988, a 2016 Certificate of Appreciation from Otonabee South Monaghan Historical Society, Keene Lions Club Helen Keller Fellowship Award, and the 2018 Martha Kidd Heritage Award. David’s dedication to the community was recognized with a tractor escort at his funeral.

Nominated by Stephanie and Jason Nelson