John J. Nimsgern

John Joseph Nimsgern, age 59, of Menomonie, Wisconsin, and formerly of Minocqua, Wisconsin, passed away unexpectedly in Las Vegas, doing one of the things he loved most, playing the slot machines. John was born on December 5, 1966, in Elgin, Illinois, to William and Joyce (Mangold) Nimsgern Sr.

John graduated from Minocqua Lakeland Union High School in 1985. While he may not have broken any academic records, he certainly made his mark on the basketball court. In fact, legend has it that he still holds a record that may never be broken, the fewest assists in a four-year basketball career.

John attended the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point, University of Wisconsin–La Crosse, and finally University of Wisconsin–Stout. He liked to joke that he had spent enough years in college that he could have been a doctor. Although he was passionate about his major, Hotel and Restaurant Management, John ultimately built a successful career spanning more than 35 years as the owner and operator of Nimsgern Painting, Inc., specializing in commercial and residential painting. Through the family business, he modeled the strong work ethic that is clearly reflected in his children today. He was especially proud that Andrew chose to continue the business and carry on his legacy.

John loved spending time with his family, fishing, boating, the Packers and Brewers, taking naps, and traveling with family and friends. He was happiest with a bourbon in hand, a cigar nearby, and a poker game around the table.

John married Kimberly Winner on June 17, 1995, in Dubuque, Iowa, and together they built a life centered around family, laughter, hard work, and love. Together they raised two beautiful children, Andrew and Megan.

John is survived by his wife of 30 years, Kim, of Menomonie, Wisconsin; his son, Andrew (Casey) Nimsgern, of Menomonie; his daughter, Megan (Sam Schoenborn), of Las Vegas, Nevada; his mother, Joyce Nimsgern; and his siblings, William “Chip” (Shari) Nimsgern Jr., Pam (Ed) Knauer, Dan (Angela) Nimsgern, his twin brother Jamie (Geralyn) Nimsgern, and Tom Nimsgern. He is further survived by many extended family members and dear friends.

John was preceded in death by his father, William Nimsgern Sr.

John’s stories, laughter, and larger-than-life presence will live on in all who knew him.

A visitation for John will be held on Sunday, May 31, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Olson Funeral Home, followed by a Celebration of Life beginning at 4:00 p.m. at Jake's Supper Club. A second Celebration of Life will be held in Minocqua at Northfork Fin and Filet on Sunday, July 5, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in memory of John may be made to the family to help establish an educational scholarship at University of Wisconsin–Stout to honor his legacy and support future students.

Nimsgern Funeral & Cremation Services of Woodruff, Wisconsin, and Olson Funeral Home of Menomonie, Wisconsin, are serving the family.

To share a memory, please visit obituaries at www.olsonfuneral.com or www.nimsgernfuneral.com