Obituary: Kenneth “Ken” Wayne Nierman, 98, The Dalles
Kenneth “Ken” Wayne Nierman passed away peacefully in his sleep, surrounded by a lifetime of love, just days before his 99th birthday.
Ken was born in October 1927 and raised on a farm near Osmond, Nebraska. It was there that he learned the value of hard work and developed a lifelong talent for growing just about anything—although his family would tell you that his corn and potatoes were particularly hard to beat.
After graduating from high school near the end of World War II, Ken answered the call to serve his country. His military service ultimately took him to the US Navy, where he served as a Yeoman First Class. Following his active-duty service, he continued serving in the Naval Reserve.
In 1952, Ken married the love of his life, Norma Kenny. Their marriage became the foundation of a family and a life they built together over more than seven decades. Just this September, Ken and Norma celebrated an extraordinary 74 years of marriage—a testament to a love and partnership that endured nearly a lifetime.
Ken was happiest outdoors, especially when he was hunting, fishing, tending a garden, or simply spending time with the people he loved. Above all else, family was at the heart of his life.
He leaves behind his beloved wife, Norma; his son, Doug Nierman; and his daughter, Janna Hage, and her husband, Garry. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Jason Hage and his wife, Nickie; Nicole Ryan and her husband, Nick; and through his four great-grandchildren, Maggie Ryan, Eames Ryan, Brody Hage, and Gunner Hage. He is also survived by his younger sister Joan Schulz of Norfolk, Nebraska, and numerous nieces and nephews in Nebraska.
Ken was preceded in death by his parents, Laura and Elmer Niermann, and his younger brother, Norman, who surely were there to greet him at the pearly gates.
Nearly 99 years is a remarkable amount of time to spend on this earth, and Ken filled those years with service to the church, faith in his Lord, love of family, friends and laughter. He lived long enough to see generations of his family grow around him, to celebrate 74 years beside the woman he loved, and to leave this world peacefully knowing just how deeply he was loved.
He will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered.
In lieu of flowers the family has requested donations be made to Faith Lutheran Church in Ken's name.
A Memorial Service will be held at Faith Lutheran Church, 2810 W 10th St., The Dalles, OR 97058, on October 17, 2026, at 11:00 AM. Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
