Gary Nies

Gary Charles Nies

Gary Charles Nies, 83 made his journey home to eternal rest on February 3, 2020 at Rapid City Regional Hospital.

He was born on October 27, 1936 in Camp Crook, SD to Theodore Edward Nies and Esther Viola Turbeville. He spent his youth herding sheep, ranching and farming near Draper, SD.

Gary graduated from South Dakota State University with a degree in animal science and served in the Army National Guard.  He married Charlene Julia Leichtnam on June 17, 1961.   Gary began his career with South Dakota Cooperative Extension Service in 1963, working in this role for 32 years.  His passion was working with the horse program and the youth in 4-H activities.

He purchased land outside of Martin to create the Nies family farm in 1975.   Through the years, Gary was recognized for his leadership in the Knights of Columbus, 4-H Rodeo, inducted into the 4-H Hall of Fame and recipient of the Heartland Horsemen Award.  He lived the life of a man with deep faith through his actions and thoughtful words of wisdom.

Gary leaves behind his wife of 58 years, Charlene (Leichtnam) Nies, Martin; children Julie (Charlie) Swindells of Salt Lake City UT,  Steve (Cindy) Nies of Winner SD, Jay (Sue) Nies of Martin SD and Kari (Kevin) Smith of Ankeny IA; grandchildren Kelsie and Ryan Swindells, Braydon, Carter and Isaiah Smith; brothers Ted (Bev) and Doug (Jackie) Nies of Draper SD, David Nies of Presho SD, Lloyd (Phyllis) Nies of Colorado Springs CO and Mary (Steve) Haugaurd or Sioux Falls SD; nieces and nephews along with numerous friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents Theodore and Esther Nies and brothers; Keith, Anthony and Steven Nies.

Funeral services were held at Our Lady’s Sacred Heart Catholic Church on Friday, February 7, 2020 with Father Tyler Dennis and Deacon Cal Clifford officiating.   Burial services were held at Martin Catholic Cemetery.   Arrangements by Chamberlain funeral home of Martin.

A memorial has been established for a 4-H Memorial College Scholarship and donations may be sent in care of Bennett County Funeral Service, PO Box 65, Martin SD 57551.