A lifelong citizen of Elk Horn (IA) died yesterday (Friday) in a rural area pond. According to the Danish Villages News, Maynard Nielsen was found in a friends pond. Upon returning home the man recognized Nielsen’s vehicle parked nearby without him in it. He then discovered the man’s body in his pond, lying face down by the dock, in approximately 4 feet of water.

Nielsen reportedly suffered from cerebral palsy most of his life but it did not stop him from regular pursuits. After receiving a masters degree, he decided to return home to Elk Horn instead of becoming a counselor, and continued being an active member of the community. Only recently did he leave his job with the Village Station and move into the Salem Lutheran Homes to receive care.