Carl A. Nitzel

Carl A. Nitzel, 83, of Moline, Illinois, died Friday, July 18, 2025, at Celebrate of Moline.

Cremation will take place at Trimble Crematory, Moline, Illinois, under the direction of Cremation Society of the Quad Cities. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Carl Alfred Nitzel was born May 30, 1940, in Moline, Illinois, the son of Willis and Ruth (Lidholm) Nitzel. As a child, he was affectionately nicknamed “Culley John”. In June 1957, Carl proudly joined the United States Army, where he earned a Good Conduct Medal and a Marksman Rifle Badge.

On May 15, 1969, Carl married Karen Remaly in Moline.

Carl learned carpet installation from his uncle Jake and spent years working alongside him before working at Plumbs Carpet in Bettendorf, Iowa. With over four decades in the flooring industry, Carl’s expertise evolved from installation to sales. He took great pride in passing his trade on to his sons, who followed in his footsteps.

Carl was known for his sharp wit and infectious smile; he could light up any room and was truly the life of the party. He cherished camping trips with his dear friends, Joe and Teresa Garrow, where evenings by the fire and fishing brought him peace. An avid cyclist, he loved long rides on local bike paths. He also had a passion for westerns, especially anything with John Wayne. He enjoyed the music of Frank Sinatra and Luciano Pavarotti.

Carl is survived by his beloved son, Aaron (Andrea) Nitzel of Coal Valley; grandchildren, Ryan, Hannah, Jaycob, and Zachary; a great-granddaughter, Braelynn; and sister, Nancy (Richard) Ostrowski. He was preceded in death by his son, Adam Nitzel; grandson, Alec Nitzel; parents, Willis and Ruth Nitzel; and siblings, Willis Nitzel, Mary Hast, Sydney Reiling, and Robert Nitzel.

Carl was the kind of person who made everyone feel good just by being around. His warmth, humor, and generous spirit will be deeply missed.

Condolences may be shared at CremationQC.com.