Mike Nitz

Marion “Mike” E. Nitz, age 88, of Brandon, SD, died on Friday, August 28, 2026, at Avera McKennan hospital in Sioux Falls with family at his side.

A Visitation will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at Heritage Lutheran Church in Brandon. A Funeral Service will begin at 10:30 a.m. Pastor Naomi Stout will officiate. Burial will be at 1:00 p.m. at the South Dakota Veteran’s Cemetery in Sioux Falls. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Heritage Lutheran Church in Brandon.

Marion “Mike” “Opa” Earl Nitz was born on September 15, 1937, in Odessa, MN, to parents, Alfred and Berdina (Mantifel) Nitz. He was the second of eight children. At a young age his family moved to Ortonville, MN. While growing up, Marion learned of hard work by working by his dad’s side growing potatoes, painting houses, and doing other miscellaneous jobs. This was during the time of WWII. Marion enjoyed waving at the soldiers traveling through town by train. He was confirmed in the First English Lutheran Church. He graduated from Ortonville High School in May 1956 and joined the Air Force in December. Marion expected to ‘see the world.’ He went through basic training in Texas and specialized training in Illinois. Instead of seeing the world, Mike ended up stationed for three years at Ellsworth Air Force Base in Rapid City. He became known as ‘Mike’ during this time because he enjoyed reading Mike Hammer novels. After leaving the Air Force, Mike settled in Hot Springs, SD where he served three years in the local police department.

Mike met Mary on Labor Day weekend in 1958 through mutual Air Force friends. They were united in marriage on June 24, 1961.

Mike joined the South Dakota Highway Patrol in 1965 and was stationed in Miller, SD until 1977. Mike and Mary adopted three children: Michael, Matthew, and Melissa. In 1972, the Highway Patrol called Mike out to work at the Rapid City flood. He also served as a member of the SWAT team during his patrol career. Mike served the Miller community through his work as an EMT, member of the Lions Club, and volunteer with the Boy Scouts.

Back issues required Mike to retire early in 1983. After several moves, the family eventually established their home in Milbank, SD. Mike busied himself with various construction jobs and worked in a greenhouse in the spring months. Mike was a gifted woodworker. He built a cradle and rocking horse for his first granddaughter (and subsequent grandchildren) and many frames, shelves, and miscellaneous items for friends and loved ones. Mike also greatly enjoyed working in the yard and grew beautiful flower gardens.

Mike and Mary traveled throughout the years to visit friends and family in California, Texas, Idaho, Arizona, Georgia, Germany, and Norway. Mike was an active member of the Retired South Dakota Highway Patrol’s Association and actively attended their yearly get togethers. Mike’s grandchildren held a special place in his heart. He attended their activities and special events without hesitation until his health no longer allowed.

Mike is survived by his wife of 65 years, Mary; his children, Michael (Jody), of Sioux Falls, Matthew, of St. Joseph, MN, and Melissa (Mike), of Brandon, SD; grandchildren, Kaija, Kjersti (Mitch), Eli, Caleb, and Ava; brother, Donald, of St. Cloud, MN; along with many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews.

Mike is preceded in death by his parents; three brothers; and three sisters.

Please note that this obituary is placed as a courtesy to the Nitz family. All funeral arrangements are entrusted to Heartland Funeral Home of Brandon, SD.