David "Dave" Wilson Sheldon

David “Dave” Wilson Sheldon was born on February 20, 1951, in Hibbing, Minnesota, to David M. and Alvina Sheldon. A proud graduate of Hibbing High School, Dave continued his education at Hibbing Junior College and later earned his MBA from the University of Minnesota Duluth.

In 1975, Dave married his high school sweetheart, Linda G. McDowell, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with love, adventure, and achieving their shared dreams.

Dave served honorably in the Minnesota National Guard’s 94th Armor Battalion, achieving the rank of Sergeant. He was awarded the Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal (ARCAM) and the Sharpshooter Medal in recognition of his dedication and skill.

Professionally, Dave worked in various capacities including sales, customer service, engineering, and was a passionate entrepreneur. He worked as Sales and Service Manager at Superior Rock Bit Co. in Virginia, MN, before founding Turbo Diesel Injection Service LLC, with locations in Virginia and Duluth. Alongside Linda, he also co-founded D.W. Sheldon Embroidery LLC, combining his passion for business with creativity and family.

In retirement, Dave and Linda spent their winters in Vero Beach, Florida, where Dave was an active member of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church. He also served as Council President at First Lutheran Church in Hibbing, reflecting his deep faith and commitment to community.

Dave was a proud member and past board director of the Engineers Club of Northern Minnesota, a past member of AIME, and an enthusiastic participant in the Hibbing Curling Club and Mesabi Country Club.

An adventurer at heart, Dave was an avid scuba diver who traveled the world exploring the depths of the ocean with Linda and close friends. He loved sailing, fishing, and spending time on the water, creating countless cherished memories with family and friends. Summers were often spent at the hunting shack in Bear River, MN, where he enjoyed hunting, four-wheeling, and the good times with lifelong friends.

Dave is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Linda Sheldon; his children, Dean (Toni) Sheldon of Lafayette, IN, James (Grace) Sheldon of Sabastian, FL, and Jessica (Blake) Stenstrom of Vero Beach, FL; and his treasured grandchildren: Briana, Adelyn, and Amelia Sheldon; Jack and Benjamin Sheldon; and Daisy and Tate Stenstrom. He is preceded in death by his parents David and Alvina. Dave was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose love and wisdom will continue to guide and inspire his family for generations to come.

A memorial service for David will be 11:30AM Saturday, August 9, 2025, at the First Lutheran Church in Hibbing. Rev. John Dietz will officiate. The visitation will be from 10:00 am until the 11:30 am Memorial service at the church on Saturday. Interment will take place at a later date in Vero Beach, FL. 

Arrangements are with the Dougherty Funeral Home of Hibbing, MN.