David Lee Nienhaus

David Lee Nienhaus, 89, of Oklahoma City, passed away on Sunday, October 6, 2024.

David was born and raised in Oklahoma City where he attended Classen High School. After graduation, he enrolled at Oklahoma A&M, where he enlisted in the US Army’s Reserve Officer Training Corp program. He was a member of Theta Kappa Phi fraternity and graduated in 1956 with a degree in Architectural Engineering. David ultimately went on to earn his master’s degree.

After completing his service in active duty, David returned to Oklahoma City and began his forty-year career as a third-generation Southwestern Bell Telephone Company executive. He continued as an officer in the Army Reserves, receiving an Honorable Discharge at the rank of Captain in 1973. David retired from SBC in 1990 and remained an active member of the American Architect’s Association.

David was an avid photographer, audiophile, book collector, and technology enthusiast. Many didn’t know that he served as primary caregiver for his aunt Mary and mother Elizabeth as they struggled through Alzheimer’s, and his aunt Martha in their final years. A life-long member of Christ the King Catholic Church, David was generous and funny, with many fond memories from his parish neighbors and friends.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Elizabeth, sister Emily Waken of Enid, and his nephew Keith Waken, also of Enid. He is survived by his brother-in-law William (Bill) Waken of Enid, nephews Steve (Carolyn) Waken of Dallas, Brad Waken (Kari Higgins) of Enid, and eight nephews and nieces.

The family asks that you consider donations in lieu of flowers to the Oklahoma Center for Gerosciences & Healthy Brain Aging or the American Heart Association.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:30 am, Friday, October 25, 2024 at Christ the King in Nichols Hills, followed by a graveside service at Rose Hill Burial Park.