Scott Alan Nelson, lovingly known to most as “Scotty,” passed away on February 17, 2026. Born on August 10, 1978, at Methodist Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa, Scott grew up in Indianola and Mystic, Iowa, and spent his final years living in Centerville, Iowa. Scott worked as a heavy machine operator for Cantera Aggregates, but his true heart and soul belonged on the open road. Driving a semi across the United States wasn’t just a job — it was his freedom, his peace, and his passion. He loved the miles, the movement, and the stories that came with life behind the wheel. When he wasn’t working, you could find him chasing the wind on his motorcycle, feeling most alive with the roar of the engine beneath him. He loved all sports and rarely missed a chance to talk about a sports bet he had placed. A quick stop at the gas station for scratch tickets was almost guaranteed — because Scotty just knew one day he’d hit it big. He was a loyal fan of the Kansas City Chiefs and the Kansas City Royals, cheering them on with unwavering pride.
In his younger years Scott was never short of causing shenanigans but his favorite thing to do was spend time at Lake Thunderhead with his grandparents and begging to be on the water skiing! He was a great water skier! Scott was the life of every party. He had a natural gift for making people laugh and smile, and he never missed an opportunity to pull a prank. His absolute favorite pastime was scaring his wife, Brandy — hoping to startle her badly enough she’d “pee her pants,” as he’d say — and then laughing so hard he could barely stand. He always made sure to record it, just so he could relive the moment and keep laughing for days or even weeks afterward. His joy was contagious, and his laughter unforgettable.
He was a proud and loving father to his children, Lane (Brianna) Nelson, Gypsy Nelson, and Amelia Nelson, and stepchildren Makayla Bauer (Colton), Jakob Bauer, and Laney Bauer, who were all his own in his heart. He was eagerly awaiting the arrival of two grandbabies. He was also a devoted dog dad to Stella and Layla, who brought him constant companionship and happiness. Scott is survived by his loving wife, Brandy; his mother, Cindy (Wayne) Babbitt; his mother- and father-in-law, Deborah (Brian) VanBlaricon; his siblings Danny (Deanne) Terrell, David (Valinda) Terrell, Steven (Ami) Nelson, and Tiffany (Scott) Hawkins; his stepbrothers Cody (Jill) Babbitt and Joey Babbitt; and many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Steven Nelson; his grandparents, Helen and Ole Nelson; Bonnie (Botkin) Crouse and Richard Crouse also his aunt, Connie Vanderpool.
A Celebration of Life will be held in March at the Crouse Café in Indianola, Iowa.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to his wife, Brandy, to be designated at a later date. Scott lived boldly, laughed loudly, loved fiercely, and left a mark on everyone who knew him. Though the road may have taken him from this world, his spirit will forever ride beside those who loved him.”
