Kemin Industries Remembers R.W. Nelson: A Trailblazer in Innovation and Philanthropy

Honoring a Visionary: The Legacy of R.W. Nelson

On April 7, 2025, R.W. Nelson, the revered co-founder and chairman of Kemin Industries, passed away peacefully in his home in Des Moines, Iowa, at the age of 98. His departure marks the end of an era for not only Kemin but also the broader agricultural industry and communities worldwide that he profoundly impacted.

R.W. Nelson was more than just a businessman; he was an innovator whose vision transformed the landscape of agricultural technology. Born on February 28, 1927, in Kansas City, Missouri, he moved to Des Moines at the young age of seven, where he would later build his company from the ground up. In 1961, motivated by a commitment to bettering agriculture through science, he and his wife, Mary Nelson, established Kemin Industries with just $10,000 in savings and their living room as a makeshift office. At that time, they were raising five small children, exemplifying both ambition and dedication.

Under R.W.’s steadfast leadership, Kemin Industries evolved into a global frontrunner in innovative ingredients for health and nutrition across both human and animal sectors. The company's product range has expanded remarkably, offering over 500 specialty ingredients that cater to diverse industries such as aquaculture, food technology, and plant nutrition. Kemin now serves clients in more than 120 countries and maintains a presence on every continent, which epitomizes R.W.’s entrepreneurial spirit and desire for innovation in the field.

R.W. Nelson's contributions extended beyond the boardroom. He held four patents and received numerous accolades for his entrepreneurial achievements, including the President's