Richard Nilges

Mr. Richard J. “Rick” Nilges, age 62 years, of Hartsburg, Mo., died Tuesday, September 4, 2019 at Capital Region Medical Center surrounded by his family. Rick was born April 25, 1957 in Washington, Mo. the son of Oscar J. and Florence M Nixon Nilges. A lifelong resident of the Central Missouri area, Rick attended Jefferson City Public Schools. He was employed as a laborer in the construction industry for several years and later in maintenance with the State of Missouri. Rick had a big personality and never met a stranger. He loved to crack jokes and gained the attention of a room just with his larger than life personality. He enjoyed music and was known to create his own, usually silly, lyrics or grab the hand of the nearest lady and command the dance floor when a tune came on. Rick liked watching NASCAR races, drinking beer and buying and selling trucks. He always wore a smile and was a loyal friend to many. Rick was loud, outgoing and jovial. He went by many nicknames over the years but his most cherished label was “Pappy”. His love for his family and friends was unmatched, Rick lived every day like it was a party and he was the life of it! Survivors include: his life partner, Sharon Lane; one daughter, Rachel Haney (John) of Holts Summit, Mo.; one step daughter, Tonya Lane of Jefferson City, Mo.; one step son, Tim Schaffer of Jefferson City, Mo.; two sisters, Rena Haulenbeek (Tim) of Jefferson City, Mo. and Rhonda Jacobs (Danny) of Holts Summit, Mo.; three brothers, Randy Nilges (Dorene) of Jefferson City, Mo., Rob Nilges (Shelly) of Tebbetts, Mo., and Rodney Nilges (Gail) of Jefferson City, Mo.; five step grandchildren, Erica Schaffer (Shawn), Bryson Clark (Kaddie), Nicki Schaffer, Jayida Brandt, and Scylor Brandt; and three step great grandchildren, Bentlee Dillie, Lane Clark, and Sawyer Isbell. He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Jim Bledsoe. Visitation will be at Freeman Mortuary from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. Monday, September 9, 2019. Funeral services will be conducted at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, September 10, 2019 in the Freeman Chapel with the Reverend Bob Nilges officiating. Interment will be at Hawthorn Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Richard Nilges Memorial Fund. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Freeman Mortuary.