Robert H. “Pappy” Nees, age 92, Miles City, Mt, passed away on November 22, 2012, at Friendship Villa in Miles City. Robert was born in Ryder, ND, November 21, 1920, the son of Clarence Nees and Anne Glaser. He graduated from Forsyth High School, participating in football, basketball, tennis, baseball and band. During those years, he worked for his Dad, Clarence in the construction world at Fort Peck, Scobey, Gardner, MT and Buffalo, Wyoming. He then worked for shipyards in Tacoma, WA, where he met and married Mildred Carter Nees. In 1943, he joined his uncle Harlan enlisting in the Navy Sea Bee’s in Portland, OR and attended Navy boot camp at Norfolk Virginia, with advanced training in Gulfport, Mississippi, which prepared him for oversees duty with the 110th Sea Bee battalion in a number of island assaults with the Marine Corp. While in the Sea Bee’s Bob played Big Band music at places like the Hollywood Canteen in Las Angeles, and The Royal Hawaiian Hotel in Waikiki, Honolulu. Discharged from the Navy, returning back to civilian life, he was selected to be a Naval guard at McNeil Island Federal Penitentiary. During this time, he coached numerous sports at the penitentiary, which inspired him to pursue a coaching career. Bob had 5 successful years at Lodge Grass High School from 1950-55, as a history teacher, coach, athletic director and numerous other responsibilities. His Native American teams successfully competed against much larger schools due to strong athletes and solid coaching. He then coached at Miles City from 1955, in basketball, football, track, gymnastics, tennis, cross country, golf, as well as American Legion/Babe Ruth baseball coaching in the summer. During the sum total of 50 years, his responsibilities included athletic director and assisting in other sports. After retirement as Athletic Director in 1983, he assisted for several years with the high school golf program. In addition, he served as assistant men’s basketball coach at Miles Community College. During his career at Custer County High School, he received numerous awards, including National Athletic Director of the year for District 7, which represents the Northwest. Bob coached athletics for 50 some years, and coached championship teams in several sports, all of which were competitive during his career.
Bob is survived by son, Rick Nees and wife Deena, of Miles City, brother Dale, and his wife, Arnette of Portland, Oregon, Jon and his wife Lila Nees , of Casa Grande, Arizona , 3 step-sons, Harlie (Cindy) Holmen, Bryan (Shannon) Holmen, Ivin (Carrie) Holmen and one step-daughter, Diane (Lonnie) Schneidt; grandchildren, Marrisa and Makayla Nees; step-grandchildren, Ben Holmen, Malynda Hould, Rachel Holmen, Jeremy & Dustin Schneidt and Shawn Holmen. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Mildred, son Larry Nees, and second wife, Beverly.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, November 29, 2012, at 11:00 a.m. at Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home in Miles City. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 28th, 1-6 pm, with the family receiving friends from 4-6 pm. Interment will follow in the family plot in Custer County Cemetery.
Service Schedule
Visitation
1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday November 28, 2012
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, MT 59301
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday November 28, 2012
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, MT 59301
Funeral Service
11:00 a.m.
Thursday November 29, 2012
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, MT 59301
Service Schedule
Visitation
1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday November 28, 2012
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, MT 59301
Family to Receive Friends
4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday November 28, 2012
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, MT 59301
Funeral Service
11:00 a.m.
Thursday November 29, 2012
Stevenson and Sons Funeral Home
1717 Main Street
Miles City, MT 59301
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Dawn Hodgson-Heibner says
I am so sorry for your loss. Bob was an amazing man!! Even 18 years after graduating high school, every time we saw each other, he always stopped to talk and we always talked about our weight team in track and field. He always brought a smile to my face, even when I didn’t want to smile. He will be greatly missed and always in my heart. My prayers go out to all of you.
Tanna Aye says
Rick, Dena and family,
My heart goes out to you for your loss. Bob was a special man who always made you feel like you were family. There never was a time when he did not stop what he was doing to visit especially if it was sports related. He was a GREAT coach and athletic director. His big voice will be missed. I will keep you in my prayers.
Stanley Markuson says
Pappy’s passing is such a loss for our community. His dedication to “the kids” was second to none. He was passionate in pushing the kids to do their best at whatever sport he was involved with at the time. He understood what it took to win, and he instilled that drive in the kids. He will certainly been missed, but long remembered.
Donna Mae (Stanley) Huss says
Nees Family,
I am deeply saddened to hear of Pappy’s passing. He was truly an amazing and inspiring individual. He was a great coach and had so much passion and enthusiasm. I got to know Pappy very well during high school golf and always loved and appreciated how he could be so encouraging…even on my “bad” golf days (which were frequently) :). I will never forget the impact Pappy had on my life and am forever thankful to have had the opportunity to be a part of his Cowgirl crew. My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time.
Clark & Mieko Pederson says
Bob was one of a kind.
He brought joy into the life of my sister Beverly and, for that, we will always be thankful.
And I believe he can now claim a ‘zero handicap’ on his ‘new golf course’.
Rest in Peace, Bob. You can proudly claim a great legacy here on Earth.
Nancy Okerman says
Pappy….kids…..sports……it all made perfect sense. Pappy and his contagious enthusiasm, ready smile, and delitghful laughter will be greatly missed.
Dennis Kenney says
I have many fond memories of Bob when I was in Forsyth High School and would meet him at differnt ball games. He was always the gentleman. In later years I would run across him in Walmart and share some memories of those long ago years.
Keli Kimball Anderson says
I’m sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with all of your family. I have very fond memories of Pappy during my high school years. I played golf and basketball and the impact he made on me will never be forgotten. That smile and laugh will stay with me forever. 🙂
Joe and Sandra Konkright says
To the Nees’ Family:
You will be overwhelmed with the many thoughts from so many people that Bob knew.
He touched many lives and was not only a good coach, but a great teacher. He made a
significant impact on all of us for the better. We will miss seeing him at the class
reunions.
Joe and Sandra
B Dean Holmes says
What an iconic man….. he touched more young people than we can count. Oh, some of us older ones too. He was so positive.
Ken and Kristi Stein says
Dear Rich, Deena and family, Our Prayers and Thoughts are with you an you family at this time. Your father touched many lives in his long career and will be greatly missed in the sports community.
Nora Drew says
So sorry for the loss of your dad. may you find comfort in your memories of him.
Sharon Wilcox says
The last time I saw Pappy was also the last time I saw CWThey were standing in the hallway at Eagles Manor. They were talking sports and all of us at the same time said “imagine that you two talking sports.” I am so glad that I had that last laugh with them both!
Sharon Wilcox says
CW and Pappy also had spent a lot of time talking at WalMart. When we ran into Pappy at WalMart I would just take the cart and continue shopping. When I got everything on my list I would go back and listen to them finish their stories. Always entertaining!
Cary Kruger says
I was a young twenty year old man that moved to Miles City when I first met Bob. It was such a pleasure to learn so much from such a great man. So blessed to know a great man. I will miss but never forget his Love for the youth of Miles City. RIP my friend.
Billie Fulton Goggin says
Coach Ness had a life-changing impact on many–including myself. Greatly saddened to hear of his passing! My most sincere condolences to his family.
Dennis and Fritzie Beever Hafla, Galen, Rachel says
I truely loved this man.. My family truely loved this man.. To know him was to love him.. He was definitely an ICON in this community and there will never be any one to take his place.. One of a kind has passed and will be missed in so many ways.. Rick, I hope you put a couple of silver dollars in his pocket.. Thoughts and prayers are with you
Dennis, Fritzie Beever, Galen, Rachel Hafla
Tom Hagadone says
To All of Pappy’s Family
It was with much sorrow this morning when reading about the passing of your father. I have such fond memories of Pappy when coaching became my life in the early 70’s. His advice even though I was at a competing school was so good and worthwhile. He helped me to realize there is more to sports than simply winning. It’s the relationships your father built that will forever be his legacy. He was such a great people person. May he rest in peace as we all pray for his soul.
Carrie Beach says
Nees Family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Rick, I was so impressed by how you honored and humored your dad in his last years. You showed me how we are supposed to take care of our parents. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Carrie Beach
Galen Hafla says
We will see you again, Coach, thank you for everything, one of your loyal “roadrunners”
Rick & Dee Abbott says
Rick & Deena – Bryan & Shannon:
We join you in your grief at the passing of Coach Nees ~ we pray that God grant each of you peace and comfort.
Angie Beaner says
My condolences to the Nees family. It’s been 10 years since I attended a sporting event in Miles City, but I will always remember seeing Pappy often throughout my high school years. He was a great man and made an awkward majorette feel like she was just as important to school spirit as the starters on the basketball team. He affected so many people in his life and he will be missed.
Daniel Mowry says
Very sorry to hear of Bob’s passing. Condolences to the entire family. He was always such a good man with us kids – patient and a strong leader. He’s the only one that called me “Dan’l” and it became a treat to hear him say my name. I’m glad I had a chance to have time with him growing up. Sorry I’m not there now to pay my respects. Prayers for the family.
James L. Arneson says
What a great loss to the community of Miles City and Montana as well. He will be missed at our sports events, he is an Icon in HS sports.
Teresa Geib Klein Bacon says
I remember him so well when I lived there a long time ago. He served his Community in so many ways, touched so many hearts. What a wonderful man. I am so sorry to hear this news. May the Lord Bless You all.
Prayers, Teresa Geib Bacon
John Hunziker says
Not much was better than getting to gym class and seeing that “Pappy” was your substitute gym teacher for the day.
Doug and Teri Zook says
Mr. Nees was one of a kind. It is difficult news ~ hearing that he has passed away. He was loved by everyone who knew him and too-many-to-count students were blessed by his teaching and coaching. To refer to him as “Special” hardly seems enough. We loved him. It is hard to see the end of an era….and Mr. Nees was indeed a legend in his own time:).
We are sad to realize now that he is not around ~ but will cherish the many, many great memories of him.
With sincere sympathy and great fondness,
Doug and Teri Zook
Ron Hathaway says
I am so proud to say I knew “Pappy” Nees and to say I was coached by one of the best! What a brilliant mind! Bob could tell you what the count was, what inning and who was on second base when we were in a 1-0 battle with the Billings legion team and that was back in 1962. I have fond memories of Bob and will always have a place in my heart for him. Rest in peace, Pappy!
Ron Hathaway
LaRae Hartman says
I had never picked up a golf club until I met Pappy in 7th grade. He gave me a set of old club he had in an old seventies brown golf bag…I was so excited! He had me out there practicing with the high school golf team giving me lessons. From then all the way through my four years of high school Pappy was the best mentor. He taught me so much about the game and for that I will always be thankful. Rest in peace Pappy. Every time I’m on the links I will think of you!
Stacie Strom says
There’s not enough words to describe Pappy, & there’s not any words that can console you.
So I’ll just quote a piece that’s so true to him:
Those we love don’t go away,
They walk beside us every day.
Unseen, unheard, but always near.
Still so loved, still so missed, & so very dear.
Peace be with you.
Blessings
Dennis and Sheri Peterson says
We have nothing but great memories when we think of Bob. He was always up for a round of golf when he visited Mayville with Beverly, and we always had great discussions about Mayville State Baseball. We stopped in Miles City many times on the way home from a ski trip. Our visits with Bob and Bev took longer than we planned, but we didn’t mind. He was always deeply interested in our lives. He will be missed!
Sue & Scott Jens says
Dear Rick & Family,
When Bob spoke you knew exactly who it was–his voice was as notable & one of a kind as he was. He touched so-o-o many lives from young to his own peers. I met him through your Mom, many years ago & got to know him throughout the years as a friend & a coach of our sons. He always gave me a bad time because I had a hard time calling him Bob or Pappy–he was Mr. Nees to me. He always asked about the kids & never forgot a name or person he had met. Scott knew him as a Coach & friend–he talks often of how Pete & Bob played in the Semi pro baseball league in Montana–usually as competitors!! You are in our thoughts & prayers!
Mark & Carol Nankivel says
Bob was one of a kind. Aunt Bev loved him very much and that was a great thing. No doubt he is organizing some pickup game of sometype this evening. He was a storyteller like no other. He will be missed. I hope Aunt Bev is ready up in heaven as there is a lot of catching up going on right now.
Our prayers are with the family.
Jeff Jens says
Nees Family,
I feel like I had Pappy as a coach for a large portion of my life, from the many Cowboy basketball camps when we were young to high school ball. Pappy was always a figure at practice and I was lucky enough to have Pappy as a head coach or part of the coaching staff for 3 years. The years after high school graduation when I would be back in MC and see Pappy at an event he would always come up and give me a big hug as is we just won a big game welcoming me back home. He will always be a cherished person and coach, he’ll certainly be missed by many. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Hal & Justine Gierke says
Rick and Deena, our thoughts and prayers are with you now and we are sorry for your loss, he was a great man and he will be truly missed by all !!
richard, margaret, greg, jeff, mitchell says
sorry to hear about coach nees.
Pete Rising says
To the Rick Nees family,
So sorry to hear about your loss. I remember your father / grandfather from when I was young, great figure of MC. God Bless each of you in this time of sorrow.
Pete J. Rising
fellow MOA Official
Helen L. Nees says
Rick,
I happened to look at the Missoulian while at the doctor’s office today and noticed Bob’s death notice, so looked online at the Star to get his obituary. Otherwise, I had no idea he died. I hope he was alert and did not have the Nees depression (which I have). I loved to listen to him talk about basketball and how to defeat the other teams. I lost touch with all of you by the time my mother died in 1983. Catherine and I do not correspond.
I remember Bob, Mildred, Larry, and you coming out to the ranch to visit. Bob was so enthusiastic about everything he did, whether coaching basketball or selling cars. He had such a booming voice. I remember, as a young girl, attending lots of basketball games at CCHS while your Dad coached. What a fun time–the band and all. I know your Uncle Ermel was Bob’s best fan. Well, now they can talk the game all they want.
I am divorced and took back my maiden name. You have my gmail address. Love, Helen L. Nees
Cheryl Pederson says
Our Family’s sympathies to the Family — it was fun to hear Bob’s stories at the Pederson family Reunions, and seeing Bev happy. Love to you, and please know our prayers are will you.
Bob Kaze says
It was only recently that I heard of Bob’s passing as I now live in Glasgow, Scotland. My most sincere condolences to his family & many friends. I did not get to know Bob until after I returned to Miles City & became a reporter/photographer at the Star once I finished undergraduate university 1972. Bob quickly “took me under his arm” as I was the one that would be doing most of the sports stories. We spent many wonderful hours driving together and talking as we went to Cowboy & Cowgirl games in all sort of weather. Bob’s love for the Cowboys & Cowgirls just oozed out of his body. Then I left Miles City for 30 years & when I returned for a few years, he was stillk a stead fast friend & mentor. It is hard for me to imagine sports in Miles City without Bob being involved in one way or another. May he rest in peace.
Best Wishes !
Bob Kaze
Bilal Clarance says
I just learned today of Coach Nees passing. On many of occasions have I thought about coach. He was my coach at Miles Community College during 2001-03. It was always a thrill to see him and and have him be part of practice and our games.
My most sincere condolences to his family!
Sincerely
Bilal Clarance
Lantz Romer says
Nees family,
Very sorry for your loss!
Only through these websites, and my slowly developing computer capabilities, did I discover about Coach’s passing. I understand it and know he lived a long and productive life. Just look how many lives he positively affected. I felt his influence in the field of sports, but his influence spread so much farther than that. Whether they realize it or not, all the citizens of Miles City felt the results of his positive inputs.
I moved to Miles in Jan 1963 and played Legion ball for Coach until ’66 when I graduated. He was always “Coach” to me, and always positive! I loved the beginning of summer road trips, usually across 3-5 states.
One year it rained us out half the time. We even taped “The Rainmakers” on the side of the International Stretchout we rode in. Once, we were supposed to play a double header in Kearney, NE in ’65, I think, when Coach took a look skywards and said , “Naw, we’ll move on to the next town to play”. Great, decision Coach! Next day in the papers were pictures of an F1 tornado that hit the motel we were supposed to stay in the night before! He just laughed it off and away we went for the next game.
We always opened the road trip around Memorial Day in Rapid City, SD and one year we followed a thunderstorm into town. I started the game and got madder and madder every inning. The mound was a pile of wet gumbo and it filled up my cleats right away. I was sliding all over the mound, like skiing in mud! I would go into the dugout looking, and expecting help. HA! Coach would be standing there laughing his butt off, saying, “Good job you ole Mudder!” NOT funny! ….But later it was… I still laugh about his “go with flow attitude”. The classic “don’t worry about the things you can’t do anything about, just do your best.” Loved being around him! Still think of him fondly and he will always be with me.
The Mudder