#USA #Des Moines #Kemin Industries #R.W. Nelson

Honoring R.W. Nelson: A Legacy of Innovation and Compassion

Kemin Industries is mourning the loss of its revered co-founder and chairman of the board, Rolland Wade "Bud" Nelson, who peacefully passed away at his home in Des Moines, Iowa, on April 7, 2025, at 98 years of age. A visionary entrepreneur, passionate inventor, and devoted philanthropist, R.W.'s legacy of transforming lives through innovation and community impact will be felt for generations to come.

R.W. Nelson was a true embodiment of entrepreneurial spirit and civic duty. Born on February 28, 1927, in Kansas City, Missouri, and later moving to Des Moines, he established Kemin Industries alongside his wife Mary in 1961 with just $10,000 in savings. Using their living room as an office, they began their mission to innovate the agricultural landscape of the Midwest while simultaneously raising five children.

Kemin has since burgeoned into a global leader, supplying an extensive range of over 500 specialty ingredients for various sectors including human and animal health, nutrition, pet food, and aquaculture, among others. With operations in 90 countries, R.W. was instrumental in guiding the company to its present stature, characterized by a commitment to quality and sustainability.

Dr. Chris Nelson, current President and CEO of Kemin, and R.W.'s eldest son, recalled, "We deeply mourn the passing of R.W. – our family patriarch and one of the visionaries behind Kemin. He was beloved by our family, countless customers around the world, and thousands of Kemin employees whose lives he touched for more than six decades." This sentiment echoes in the hearts of those fortunate enough to know him personally or through his impactful work.

A celebrated innovator, R.W. held four patents and earned numerous accolades for his contributions to science and business. Notably, he received two presidential citations for export excellence and was inducted into the Iowa Business Hall of Fame in 2006. His visionary leadership not only advanced Kemin's reach but also set a standard for integrity and social responsibility within the industry.

R.W.’s dedication extended far beyond corporate success; he believed in improving the communities in which Kemin operated. His philanthropic efforts are visible in the many organizations he supported throughout Iowa and worldwide. From education initiatives at Dowling Catholic High School and Drake University to humanitarian work assisting fishing communities in India following a tsunami, his contributions have made a lasting difference.

In addition, R.W. and his wife Mary founded the Kemin Primary School in China and supported disaster relief missions in Nepal and Brazil through Habitat for Humanity. These acts of kindness not only reinforced the familial roots of Kemin but also highlighted R.W.'s belief in a moral obligation to give back.

A proud military veteran, R.W. served as a corporal in the U.S. Army Air Corps during the closing years of World War II, where he was stationed in the Philippines. Following his discharge, he continued his education, ultimately graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in biology and chemistry from Drake University. His post-war endeavors led him to create a lasting legacy that empowered countless individuals and families.

R.W. Nelson is survived by his beloved wife Mary, their five children, thirteen grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. His commitment to servant leadership, his family, and the community at large will be deeply missed but forever cherished.

As Kemin Industries continues to operate under the foundational values laid by R.W., the company remains steadfast in its mission to improve the quality of life globally through innovative product solutions. Memorial contributions in his honor may be directed to organizations close to his heart, reflecting the generous spirit that defined his life.

Kemin's journey, guided by R.W. Nelson’s vision, showcases the profound impact that one individual can have on the world, and his legacy will inspire future generations to pursue their passions while giving back to their communities.