BLOOMINGTON -- A popular former Unit 5 teacher -- whose four-year medical odyssey captured the attention of many area residents -- has died.

Dave Nelson, 48, of Bloomington succumbed to complications of pancreatitis on Monday night at Indiana University Hospital in Indianapolis, said his wife, Kim Nelson. He was a chemistry teacher at Normal Community High School.

"He struggled so hard," she said Friday. "He was determined to live and return to his family and the classroom. It's hard to take."

The Nelson children, Katie, 9, and Elizabeth, 7, will return to Northpoint Elementary School when classes resume next week.

Dave Nelson was known for making it fun for students to learn. He rode his bike to school and often stayed after school to help struggling students.

"He was a wonderful person and an excellent teacher," said John Pye, Unit 5's assistant superintendent of human resources. "He was passionate about teaching kids and related to them on a variety of different levels."

Nelson had outpatient gallstone surgery in October 2005 and expected to be back at school in three days. He never returned.

Nelson developed pancreatitis, a rare disease that involves inflammation of the pancreas, a small organ in the upper abdomen. During the next three years, he battled numerous infections, had many surgeries, nearly died twice and wasn't able to return home until October 2008.

Last spring, his pancreatitis flared up again. He was referred to a surgeon who specializes in pancreas cases at Indiana University Hospital. Battling numerous infections, Nelson was never strong enough to endure the proposed surgery and his condition deteriorated.

Kim Nelson said a celebration of life service will be announced later. She has appreciated fundraisers and other support from friends in Unit 5 and from their church, Calvary United Methodist Church in Normal.

"After four years of illness and disability, there are not a lot of resources left," she admitted.

"I want to thank the community for its encouragement and support and prayers. It restores your faith in mankind when you see the generosity in people."