11/17/2025
Former Mediapolis Mayor Passes
Larry Nelson, 90, of Burlington, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 14, 2025, at his home with family at his side.
Visitation will be held Wednesday, November 19, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Snyder & Hollenbaugh Funeral and Cremation Service of Mediapolis. Memorial services will follow on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Clover Creek Event Venue in Mediapolis with food and fellowship following. Memorials may be directed to Southeast Iowa Hospice in Larry’s memory. Online condolences may be shared at sandhfuneralservices.com.
Larry Dale Nelson was born March 26, 1935, in Iowa City, Iowa, the son of Lawrence “Spike” and Sarah “Sally” (Rasmus) Nelson. He graduated from Mediapolis High School and later continued his education in Iowa City. From 1955 to 1959, Larry proudly served his country in the United States Air Force.
On April 6, 1958, he married the love of his life, Juventina “Tina” Rocha, in Uvalde, Texas. Their love story was truly one in a million, deep, joyful, unwavering, and immediately apparent to anyone who met them. Together they built a life filled with family, adventure, friendship, and devotion.
Larry was a diligent and dedicated worker throughout his life. He began his career at Campbell Chain and Lehigh Leopold before working for his father and eventually becoming the owner of Nelson Trucking. He cared deeply for his employees and took great pride in the family business. His strong work ethic was shaped by his grandparents and parents.
Larry’s impact on Mediapolis is lasting. A gifted communicator and natural leader, he served for many years as both mayor and city council member. He was a pillar of the community and instrumental in the creation of the Mediapolis Community Theater, in which he also performed; one of the many projects to which he devoted his time, personal resources, and his wholehearted support. He was also active in the First Presbyterian Church, the Mediapolis Lions Club, and Ducks Unlimited.
In his daily life, Larry was known for his generosity, kindness, and sharp sense of humor. He loved a good joke, both hearing one and telling one. Larry was a thoughtful listener who offered guidance grounded in sincerity, experience, and faith. Together with Tina, wherever they traveled or lived, they formed lifelong friendships with ease.
Community and camaraderie were at the center of his life. He loved bowling, golfing with his buddies, traveling, and later wintering in San Antonio and Rancho Viejo, Texas. After moving to Burlington, his garage became the neighborhood gathering place for Saturday afternoon “meetings,” where friends shared stories, laughter, and a favorite drink. More recently, he took great delight in Wii bowling, card games, and conversation with his caregivers.
Above all, Larry cherished his daughters to no end. His love for his family was steadfast, joyful, and immeasurable. Everyone who knew Larry well loved him and he loved them right back.
Larry will be deeply missed by his daughters: Lori Dee “Chiquita” (Jerry) Yearwood of Burlington, Linda Dianne “Linny” Reynolds of Dallas City, IL, Lisa Day Nelson of Mediapolis, Lea Darci (Michael) Burke of Burlington, and Laci Dru (Clay) Johnson of Sperry; 11 grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents and by his beloved wife, Tina.
