Clarence E. Ninmer, 93, formerly of Kiel, went to be with his Lord and Savior on May 5, 2012. He was born on August 11, 1918, son of the late Edwin & Alvina (Wriedt) Ninmer. Clarence was baptized and confirmed at Bethlehem United Church of Christ, town of Schleswig, where he remained a faithful member his entire life. He graduated from Hillside Grove School and then stayed at home to help his father & mother farm. At the age of 18 he started hauling milk for Henning Cheese and continued for 45 years. On May 18, 1940, he married Arlene Maurer, The couple bought a farm in the town of Schleswig, fixed it up and together worked very hard farming. Clarence also had various other jobs, including his own egg route. He was involved with Hillside Grove School serving on the school board as treasurer from 1943-1959 when the one room school closed. He was also 1st Supervisor for the township of Schleswig for 14 years. As an active member of Bethlehem UCC he sang in the choir and later became the president of the church Brotherhood. The couple moved to Kiel in 1975 where Clarence served on the City Council for a number of years. The couple enjoyed gardening and canning their produce. Clarence took a special interest in roses. They produced large beautiful blooms that people would stop to admire. If they weren't dancing, they were traveling. They visited every state in the United States and Europe. Besides playing a good game of Sheepshead, he belonged to the Kiel Senior Center and delivered meals. He enjoyed talking to the “locals” about farming and taking a drive to ensure the crops were progressing nicely. His wife Arlene preceded him in death on May 26, 2003. Although legally blind he maintained his good sense of humor and positive attitude. The light continued to shine on him until he was taken home. Survivors include his children: DuWayne (Marcy) Ninmer, rural Kiel, Lana (Robert) Prigge, Cleveland, seven grandchildren; Traci (Thomas) Rabe, Kelly (James) Ryba, Michael (Sarah) Ninmer, Sharon (Kevin) Reinemann, Shelby (Todd) Hermann, Sheila (Bart) Krepsky, Sarah (Kurt) Hemmingsen and ten great grandchildren; Trevor, Tasha & Trenton Rabe, Ryen & Rene Ryba, Jennifer & Ty Ninmer , Andrew & Eric Reinemann and Avery Hemmingsen. He is further survived by one brother, Merlin (Doris Mae) Ninmer, sisters-in-law, Janelle Wagner, Delores (Vernon) Wriedt, nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. He was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Arlene, infant great grandson, Riley Ryba, infant brother, Raymond, inlaws, Albert & Aroma Maurer, brothers-in-law, Albin Wagner Jr,, Lester Maurer and sister-in-law & brother-in-law, Luella & Truman Rabe. Funeral services for Clarence will be held on Wednesday, May 9, 2012 at 6:00 pm at Bethlehem UCC, Lax Chapel Road, Kiel with Pastor Ashley Nolte officiating. Burial will take place in the church cemetery. Family and friends may call at the church on Wednesday from 4:00 pm until the time of service. A memorial has been established in his name. Clarence was an excellent farmer, never being wasteful, making a good living and never forgetting that everything he had was a gift from God. He taught his family to have good humor, honesty and good work ethics. He was very proud of them all. Daddy, your long journey here on earth is now done. May your days now be brighter as you once again dance with mom in heaven. We will always love you very much and miss you greatly. A special thank you for all the loving care given to Clarence at Willowpark Assisted Living and Hospice Advantage for the care and concern they have shown Clarence and his family.



