Daniel Nisley, 91, of Spearfish, SD and a long-time resident of Powder River County, passed away on Monday, February 24, 2020 at Spearfish Canyon Healthcare in Spearfish, SD.
Daniel Nisley was born on June 30, 1928 to Otis and Dessa (Bell) Nisley, in Powder River County, MT. The youngest of one brother and two half sisters, he grew up on the ranch where he was born. Dan graduated from Powder River County High School in Broadus, MT and, after briefly attending Montana State University, he returned to the ranch and worked it with his father and brother.
Dan married Susan Dent on January 21, 1951 in Broadus. Together they worked the ranch that Dan grew up on, raised four children and built a life based on hard work, a pride in the land, a deep respect for others and a willingness to always lend a helping hand to family, friends and neighbors. Dan talked about the Golden Rule and tried his best to live it. They raised sheep and cattle and loved the ranch. Dan and Susan retired to Spearfish, SD in the late ‘80’s and they lived there until his death.
Dan worked very hard on the ranch but found time for many activities. He owned a Piper plane and loved flying it to check on the livestock and just to have fun. Dan was instrumental in initiating phone service for seven to eight families in their area and for many years he personally maintained the phone lines. He liked to work with his hands including maintaining and building equipment used on the ranch as well as horse drawn sleighs and carriages for his children. For many years, he was active in the local rifle club, enjoyed playing pool and horseshoes and loved family camping and boating trips. Dan and Susan never found a card game they could not master and enjoy. After he retired, he took up golf and joked that his game never was as good as the enjoyment that he received from being outdoors with friends.
Dan is survived by his wife, Susan, of Spearfish; his children, Karen (Dick) Knutson of Eden Prairie, MN, David (Pam) of Broadus, MT, Nancy (Bruce) Klapmeier of Wilbur, WA and Robert (Arshi) Nisley of Cheyenne, WY; seven grandchildren; six great-grandchildren and numerous nephews and nieces and their families.
Dan was preceded in death by his parents, and siblings, John Nisley, Leona Lull and Irene Harper.
Dan requested a spring or summer funeral and a funeral service will be scheduled on a future date at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Broadus, MT. Arrangements being made by Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home of Miles City, MT. Memorials are preferred to the Myositis Association or to the Spearfish Senior Center.
Cindy and Dave Burris says
Thoughts and prayers to the Nisley families.
SALLY A. BORLA says
SO SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT DAN’S PASSING–WHAT A NICE MAN HE WAS AND ALL HIS FAMILY. SO ENJOYED VISITING WITH HIM WHEN MOM AND I WOULD SEE THEM IN SPEARFISH. MAY HE REST IN PEACE. GOD BLESS
Carol Schneidt says
Uncle Dan was a wonderful man and will be greatly missed by all of his family and friends.
Marie Gotfredson says
We’ve lost a good neighbor and a wonderful friend. It has been a blessing to have known Danny and his family for all these many years!
Janet Thoresen says
Dan was a wonderful neighbor. I’ll always remember him shoveling snow with that little yellow shovel. Prayers go to Susan and all friends and family.
Ron Bidwell says
Sorry to here of losing Dan. Fond memories of him and his cornies.
Peggy (Traub) Line says
Nan, I am so sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. I have such wonderful memories of spending time with you & your family, when we were kids! May God comfort all of you.
Helen Rogge says
So very sorry to hear of the passing of Dan I always thought a lot of Dan. A very nice man. My thoughts are with the family.
Danielle and Steve Ray says
Sending hugs, thoughts and prayers to all the family who I know are grieving the loss of such a wonderful man. Dan had such a kind heart and great smile, it is an honor to be named after him! He and Susan left an amazing legacy with all the incredible children they raised and set such a fine example of a happy marriage and life well lived. Mom and grandma send their condolences and love and have been reflecting on so many wonderful memories of Dan. Mom said they had the kind of marriage that most people only dream of and were always so fun to be around! May all the wonderful memories you have of him give you some comfort in this most difficult time.
Bonnie Powell says
Karen, Dave, Nancy and Robert, Stanley and I send our prayers to you all and your families.
Norm Edwards says
Dan will be missed by all who knew him our sympathy and and found memories pass with him. Rest In Peace.
Gloria Smolik says
Thoughts and prayers to the Nisley families. So often my children being it up about Mom do you hear from Dan & Susan,,,,I know how you all feel about losing a husband, Dad and Grandpa, as just a year ago i lost my husband…Dan and Susan was my neighbor on Nickel Place. Take care of you Mom.
Praying for all of you
Gloria Smolik and children
Linda Elder says
The Dan I knew was so kind hearted and gentle, which is a reflection of how he was raised and lived and what he passed on to his family and friends. So sorry for your loss.