(Radio Iowa) – The co-founder and chairman of the board of Kemin Industries has died. Information from the company says 98-year-old R.W. Nelson died at his home Monday. Nelson was born in Kansas City and moved to Des Moines when he was seven. He graduated from Dowling Catholic High School and Drake University.

He created Kemin Industries in Des Moines in 1961, and the company grew to become an international supplier of specialty ingredients for human and animal health and nutrition products with operations in 90 countries. Nelson was celebrated as an innovator and was recognized for his scientific discoveries and business achievements — including citations from presidents Nixon and Carter.

Nelson is survived by his wife, Mary, and four children, thirteen grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.