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BORN
1933
DIED
2025
Donald Nienhaus Obituary
February 23, 1933 - June 6, 2025
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Donald Robert Nienhaus, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Born in St. Louis, Missouri, on February 23, 1933, to Viola and Herbert Nienhaus, Don led a life defined by love, dedication, and integrity.
On July 3, 1953, he married his beloved wife, Joan Patricia Tranel, at Camp Chaffee, Fort Smith. Arkansas. Their union was a testament to love, strength, and partnership, and together they built a very large beautiful family.
Don was preceded in death by his dear granddaughter, Cyndi Johnson, who passed away on June 2, 2023.
He leaves behind his loving wife, Joan, five children, fourteen grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren, all of whom will carry forward his values and legacy:
- Donna : spouse Lee; child Jodi: (children Andrew and Ella).
- Dawn : spouse Kevin; children Ryan: (Lindsey; children Brooks and Colton), Jordan, Austin (Taylor; children Charlotte and Bennett).
- Diane : spouse Perry; children Shawn (Dani), Marc: (Kelsey; child Scotty), and Sarah.
- John : spouse Wendy; children Barry, Ela, and Ava.
- Jim : spouse Amy; children Drew, Alex, and Wyatt.
Don proudly served in the Korean War for two and a half years, demonstrating courage and dedication to his country. Upon returning home to St. Louis, he built a life grounded in hard work and determination. He worked at TWA Airlines before becoming a carpenter, eventually establishing his own contracting business.
Upon retirement, Don and Joan moved to Phoenix, Arizona, and later they settled in Rochester Hills, Michigan, to be closer to family.
Don found joy in gathering with friends and family, playing golf, and enjoying card nights.
Interment will take place at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, Missouri. Services will be announced at a later date or may be private.
To honor Don's life and service, donations may be made to the charity of your choice in his name. Alternatively you can make a donation to Jefferson Barracks Veterans Legacy Memorial (VLM) ( https://www.cem.va.gov/VLM/index.asp and use the e-Donate link or 1-866-245-1490).
His kindness, wisdom, and unwavering love for his family and community will be cherished always. May he rest in peace.
Memories and Condolences
for Donald Nienhaus
Catherine Heiman
June 18, 2025
My condolences to all. What a life! I will always remember your dad being astonished I had never tried White Castle after drinking all night so he made a run and brought him back to the house well we all know what comes the next day! Lol. Have peace in your good memories.
John Nienhaus
June 17, 2025
I remember the day Dad and I drove down to Lake of the Ozarks to take delivery of the 21´ Celebrity bow rider boat he´s see sitting in the pic attached.
I dropped him off at the marina just a couple miles from Bagnell Dam. As soon as the sales rep completed the walk through, gave Dad the keys and he pulled away from the dock, I remember vividly black thunder storm clouds building above. As I began my drive back to Malibu Shores Condominiums I could see Dad pull out into the main channel towards Horseshoe Bend. It was just about then the sky opened up with loud thunder, lightning and poured down rain!!
Back in1981there were still areas from old HWY 54 u could look down into the lake and see boat traffic. When I had the chance I did and a few times I could see Dad throttle and trim down bangin the 260 Chevy engine hard as he could!! Miss u Dad!!
Shirley Ponte
June 16, 2025
My mother, Shirley Ponte, would like to extend her sincere condolences. She has fond memories of you both. May God bless you and keep you in his hands.
Jim Selzer
June 16, 2025
Dear Joanne, so sorry for your loss and our loss of such a warm, loving, funny man. My years in St Louis were gifted by you and Don and your visits to Jacksonville filled with love and laughter. Don is such a gift to so many. I hope in your loss and your children´s loss that Don´s sweet memory will bring smiles thru the years. Love Jim and Ouise
Jane F Dolan
June 15, 2025
Dawn, I'm so sorry about your dad. He was always such a nice man to allow us. I know you'll miss him. My sympathies to your family.
Lisa (Bine) Copeland
June 15, 2025
This is how I will always remember him!
Joan and family you have my deepest sympathy.
He will always be with you in your heart.
Don is home and free.
Al and Cheryl Niehoff
June 14, 2025
Joan and family, Al and I are very sorry to hear of Don´s passing. We had many fun times with you both. God bless you and your wonderful family.
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