Gilbert Nitsch

Gilbert "Gil" Dean Nitsch, 74, of Chadron, Nebraska, passed away in the comfort of his home on Saturday, May 6th, 2017.

Gilbert was born June 6th, 1942, to Ivan and Zalia (Claflin) Nitsch in their farm home in Hayes County, Nebraska. He was the second eldest of six children. Gilbert attended country school until entering Hayes County High. He was a talented multisport athlete and participated in football, track, basketball, and baseball. Gilbert was also involved in several school activities, including Boys Glee, Choir, H Club, Class Vice President, and even crowned Homecoming King.

Upon graduating high school in 1961, he entered McCook Community College to play football and pursue a degree in dentistry. Gilbert transferred to Chadron State College in 1962 to continue his football career and graduated in 1966 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. During his time at Chadron State, Gilbert met Chadron native, Floanne "Bunny" Apa, and they were married in 1964. Through this union, they welcomed their children, Nancy Renae, Rebecca "Becki" Lynn, and Gilbert "Dean" Nitsch, Jr.

Gilbert began his railroad career with Chicago Northwestern Railroad in 1965 in Chadron. He then moved to Phoenix, Arizona, to pursue other business opportunities before returning to the railroad in Clinton, Iowa. Gilbert and his family relocated back to Chadron to continue his career with the railroad. Gilbert and Bunny divorced in 1975.

Gilbert married Linda Nitsch in 1977 and gained three stepchildren, Stacy Lynn, Cody Lee, and Kristin Kay Bach. Through this union, they welcomed Debra "Debbie" Ann Nitsch. While working on the railroad, Gilbert and Linda established the Nitsch Ranch in 1978 while also operating the Nitsch & Nitsch Pig Farm with his brother Roger. Gilbert retired from the railroad in 1989 to ranch fulltime.

Throughout his life in Chadron, Gilbert was an active member of the community. He served on the volunteer fire department, 4-H Board, Ridgeview Country Club Board, Farm Services, and Alpha School Board. Gilbert was an esteemed member of the Chadron Elks Lodge #1399, eventually earning the highest honor of Exalted Ruler. He also served as Dawes Country commissioner for three consecutive terms. Gilbert was a devout supporter of Chadron State College and enjoyed his many years as a "Chain Gang" member. In 2012, Gilbert received the Family Tree Award from Chadron State College. He was a member of the Immanuel Lutheran Church.

Gilbert is survived by his daughters and son; Nancy (Chris) Stein, Chadron, NE, Becki Richardson, Gillette, WY, Stacy (Dan) Beebe, Aurora, IL, Cody (Shane) Shepherd, Westminister, CO, Dean Nitsch, Chadron, NE, Kristin Yeutter, Bellevue, NE, and Debbie Floyd, Torrington, WY; his mother, Zalia Nitsch, Chadron, NE; his grandchildren, Kassi (Trent) Hartman, Karyssa, Kendra, Tristin, and Madison Stein, Aspen and Brody Richardson, Trey and Ty Beebe, Heather Bach, Shaniah Freeseman, and Nick Spinaci, Kayla Sayer, Ashtyn Nelson, Jaydan Yeutter, Jerick Yeutter, Kyleigh Smith, and Jace Barber, Trace, Jada, and Charlee Floyd; his great-grandchildren Isaac and Jax Hartman; his siblings, LeRoy Nitsch, Castle Rock, CO, Doug (Kay) Nitsch, Chadron, NE, Elaine (Kent) Haarberg, Enders, NE, Roger (Jenea) Nitsch, Chadron, NE, and Charles (Marla) Nitsch, Germantown, TN; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Gilbert was preceded in death by his loving wife of 27 years, Linda Nitsch, father, Ivan Nitsch, mother-in-law, Carol Emmett, and father-in-law, John Emmett.

The family of Gilbert Nitsch would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to his friends and Chadron community members for their friendship, love, support, and loyalty over the years. A Memorial has been established with the Chadron State Foundation. Gifts may be sent to PO Box 188, Chadron , NE 69337.

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