Dr. David Nielsen, 73, of Lead, South Dakota, took his final ride into the stars September 2, 2025.

David was born February 1952, in Winner, South Dakota.  He was the youngest son of Harold "Bud" and Dorothy "Dot" Nielsen. He graduated from Winner High School and Kansas State University with a degree in veterinary medicine. Dr. David Nielsen practiced medicine and surgery in Manhattan Beach, CA from 1976 to the early 90's. He then focused his professional skills on and became a pioneer in veterinary dentistry.

An avid outdoorsman, his animals were a constant in a life that had twists and turns. It's not easy to capture a life that had both shadows and light.  But David was a man of contrasts---brilliant, independent, and sometimes complicated.  He lived life on his own terms, with both strength and stubbornness, humor and grit.  Those who knew him best will remember his fierce love of animals, and all things outdoors. As well as his wide-ranging stories, and his unfiltered way of seeing the world.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Dorothy Nielsen, great-nephew, Samuel Massimini; brothers Dr. Douglas Nielsen, Dr. William Nielsen; son Taylor Nielsen, nephew Trevor Nielsen, & his loyal & loving dog Sophie.

He is survived by his niece Arrah (Joe) Massimini of Dallas, TX; great nieces, Claire and Hannah Massimini; as well as several cousins.

A remembrance will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.

Though his journey ended suddenly, it ended in the place he loved most: on horseback, with his dogs, underneath an open sky in the Black Hills.

Ride on, Uncle Dave.  You will always be remembered.