In Memory
McCOOK, Neb. — Michael “Mike” L. Nothnagel, age 68, of McCook, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2020, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, Neb. Born May 5, 1952, in McCook to parents Paul and Nadine (Peters) Nothnagel, Mike grew up south of McCook and was a class graduate of 1970. After high school, Mike joined the Army National Guard and earned a distinguished expert M-16 Rifle Award. He was selected to attend a track vehicle mechanic course graduating at Fort Knox, Ky. Following his time in the service, Mike was an engineer for BNSF Railroad for 40 years until his retirement in 2013. On Sept. 25, 1990, Mike went from a bachelor of 38 years to a husband and father, by marrying his bride, Darlene (Shields) Nothnagel in Reno, Nev. A family was formed with daughters, Destiny and Shanna Waterman. Mike was known to be a willing, ready, and a knowledgeable expert in whatever task you may need help with. He had a natural curiosity about many things and attained a vast knowledge as a result. Mike strived for excellence in everything he did. Anyone that met Mike knew he had a passion for muscle cars. He was especially proud of the 1962 409 Impala that he built himself. Over the years, Mike won several high honor national awards in various car shows. For 40 years, every September Mike attended the Reno International Air Races where he served on the pit crew. Mike was preceded in death by his father, Paul Nothnagel. Those left to celebrate his life include his wife, Darlene Nothnagel of McCook; daughters, Destiny Waterman of Fort Collins, Colo., and Shanna (Jeff) Schulz of Osmond, Neb.; mother and stepfather, Nadine (Stan) Vrbas; brother, Bill (Linda Thieben) Nothnagel and blood brother, Larry (June) Wells, all of McCook; as well as one grandson, Benjamin Walter of Fort Collins, Colo. Funeral services will be 2 p.m., on Monday, Dec. 21, 2020, at McCook Christian Church with Pastor Clark Bates officiating. The family requests that guests wear masks. The service will also be broadcast on the McCook Christian Church YouTube Channel and their Facebook Page. A private burial with Military Honors will follow in Riverview Cemetery, McCook. A cruise night Celebrating Mike’s life will be held in the spring. Memorial contributions are suggested in Mike’s name to be designated at a later date and may be sent to Carpenter Breland Funeral Home, c/o the Nothnagel Family, PO Box 476, McCook, NE 69001. Carpenter Breland Funeral Home of McCook has been entrusted with the arrangements. Please visit our website at www.carpenterbreland.com to sign the online guestbook for the family.
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