Kenneth Michael Nehl

kenneth  nehl

February 25, 1935 ~ October 20, 2024

Born in: Alta Vista, IA
Resided in: New Hampton, IA

Kenneth “Ken” Michael Nehl age 89 of New Hampton, IA died Sunday, October 20, 2024, in New Hampton.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at Holy Family Parish – New Hampton with Rev. James Goerend celebrating the Mass.

Friends may greet the family from 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at the church.

Kenneth Michael Nehl, known as Ken to his friends and loved ones, passed away on October 20, 2024, in New Hampton, IA. Born on February 25, 1935, in Alta Vista, IA, the son of Clarence and Elizabeth (Elenz) Nehl. Ken’s life was a testament to his resilience, work ethic, and the love he had for his family.

Ken’s early education was rooted in faith and discipline, as he attended a catholic school in Alta Vista through the 8th grade. His strong sense of duty led him to enlist in the United States Army, where he honorably served his country before being discharged. Ken’s military service was a profound period of his life, instilling in him values that he carried forward in all his endeavors.

After his time in the service, Ken’s life took a turn towards lifelong companionship when he met Delores Samec at a dance in Lawler. The couple quickly found they shared a special bond and were married on September 22, 1959, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Protivin. Together, they were blessed with three children: Richard, Julie, and Ron. Ken was a devoted husband and father, always ensuring that his family was cared for and loved.

Initially residing in the Alta Vista area, Ken and Delores eventually moved to New Hampton to lay down their roots. It was there that Ken began his career in carpentry, working alongside Otto Lentz. His skill and dedication soon led him to a position with John Deere, where he began in the foundry. Ken’s determination and hard work saw him rise through the ranks to become a machinist, a role he held with pride for years until his retirement after 30 dedicated years.

Ken’s work ethic was matched only by his passions outside of his profession. He had an enduring love for the outdoors, finding solace in the tranquility of hunting and fishing. Ken’s patience at the water’s edge was symbolic of his approach to life—calm, steady, and content to be in the moment, even if the fish weren’t biting. His green thumb was evident in his garden, which he lovingly tended to up until his final year, nurturing it as he did his relationships with those around him.

Alongside Delores, Ken occasionally indulged in trips to the casino, where the couple enjoyed testing their luck together. At home, Ken was a self-taught tinkerer, his hands always busy fabricating and fixing various projects in his garage. His resourcefulness and skill were gifts that he generously shared with family and friends, often helping them with their own projects and repairs.

Ken’s selfless nature and handy capabilities made him an invaluable person in the lives of those who knew him. He was the sort of person who would offer help before it was asked for, and his presence brought comfort and stability to many.

Ken is survived by his wife, Delores Nehl of New Hampton, IA; two sons, Richard (Diane) Nehl of New Hampton, IA, Ron Nehl of New Hampton, IA; one daughter, Julie Nehl of Rudd, IA; one grandson, Kenneth Napier, and three great-grandchildren, Booker Kapping, Hannah Napier, and Benton, Napier; one brother, Joe (Lorraine) Nehl of Hawaii; one sister, Florence Boss of Nashua, IA; one brother-in-law, Wilfred Walz of New Hampton, IA; and three sisters-in-law, Virginia Nehl of Waterloo, IA, Mary Nehl of Hazelton, IA, and Sharon Nehl of Dunkerton, IA.

He was preceded in death by his parents; six brothers, Ray (Delores) Nehl, Wally (Lois) Nehl, Lawrence “Dick” Nehl, Bill Nehl, Bob Nehl, and Eddie Nehl; one sister, Joanna Walz; one brother-in-law, Don Boss. 

 

Services

Mass of Christian Burial: October 29, 2024 10:30 am - 11:30 am

Holy Family Parish - St. Joseph Center - New Hampton
206 N. Broadway
New Hampton, IA


Visitation: October 29, 2024 9:30 am - 10:30 am

Holy Family Parish - St. Joseph Center - New Hampton
206 N. Broadway
New Hampton, IA


Graveside: October 29, 2024 11:30 am

Calvary Cemetery - New Hampton
726 North Pleasant Hill
New Hampton, IA


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  1. To the Nehl Family, we are so sorry to hear of Kenny’s passing. He was always a man on the move! Thinking of you all.

  2. I am so sorry to hear of the loss of Kenneth. I had gotten rhubarb from them at times and always enjoyed a short visit. I will miss seeing them sitting in front of the garage enjoying the day – they always waved. I’m sure they only sat there after all their work was done. They had such a beautiful garden. Sympathy and prayers for the family.

  3. Prayers For Strength & Peace During This Time Of Loss. He Lived A Life God Wanted For Him, All Of You. God Bless You All. Debbie (Vorwald) Morrison

  4. I am so sorry to hear that Ken has passed.I was in Germany at the same time as Ken .met him one night in Staubing had a couple beers together talked about Elma and Alta Vista he knew my father in law Henry Hoffman I enjoyed the evening.Again I am very sorry for your loss.

  5. Sending my thoughts and prayers to Ken’s family. I work at MercyOne and like many others, as we headed home we could count on a wave and a smile from Ken and Delores. They were the unofficial greeters to dozens of patients and staff everyday it was nice enough for them to sit out by the garage. Ken usually had a fly swatter in his hand and would wave with it. Since his passing, I find myself still glancing at the place he would always sit and missing that wave. It is a reminder that such a simple act of kindness can touch so many people and they likely didn’t know the impact they had. You will be missed Ken.

  6. Delores, Richard, Ron, and Julie, you have my deepest sympathy. Ken would wave or come over and talk to me when I was outside when I lived across the street from you to the south. Great neighbor. He is going to be missed. Hugs and prayers!

  7. Sorry to hear of Ken’s passing! Keeping the Nehl family on our prayers. May he rest in peace!
    Rod, Carol and Chris Olson


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