Joseph Carl Nitardy

Joseph Carl Nitardy, 75, died peacefully on December 30, 2021 at Stacyville Community Nursing Home. He was born July 4, 1946 at home in St. Ansgar, IA, son of Rudolph and Marie Nitardy. As a child born with special needs, Joe remained at the family farm, living a quiet, simple and remarkably independent life. Although his opportunities were limited, Joe embraced and thrived on what he had - a loving family, friends, the woods/nature that surrounded him and faith. He was a lifetime member of St. Peter Lutheran Church in Toeterville, IA. Joe was a kind, loving and empathetic soul. His depth of understanding often amazed those who knew him. He was so grateful to all who visited and “included” him. In Joe’s words, they were “special persons”. He enjoyed the sharing of memories and stories and especially looked forward to his birthday when the entire family gathered on July 4th every year. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Rudolph and Marie Nitardy, sisters, Alice (George) Bartz, Barbara Rose and brothers, Otto Nitardy and Bob (Harriet) Nitardy. Joe is survived by his beloved sisters and brothers-in-laws: Carolyn (Bruce) Gerdts, St. Ansgar, IA and Margaret (Eugene) Buenger, Tripoli, IA. Nieces and nephews: Jim (Kay) Bartz, Ellen (Dennis) DeRycke, Steve (Terrie) Nitardy, David Rose, Mary (Eric) Kellogg, Greg (Kendra) Buenger, Jim (Kim) Buenger, Mark Buenger, Carolyn (Dan) Dawson, Henry Nitardy, Mike (Denise) Gerdts, Lori Gerdts, Doug (Coral) Gerdts and many great nieces and nephews. A special thank you to the Stacyville Community Nursing Home staff for often going above and beyond in caring for Joe in ways that mattered to him most. Uncle Joe, Joey, JoeJoe, Joseph, Joe… your presence will be missed. A memorial service will be held at a later date.