A White male by the name of Raymond William “Shorty” Nieman, 72 years old, passed away in Hays, Kansas on February 26, 2021. Born in Colby, Kansas on January 11, 1949, he was a 1967 graduate of Grinnell High School. Following his graduation, he served his country in the US Army from 1968 to 1970. On September 6, 1971, he married his wife, Kathy, in Oakley, Kansas.
A contractor by trade, Nieman made significant contributions to the Hays community. His work included the construction of additions to Hays Medical Center, St. Nicholas of Myra Church, the Hays Regional Airport, and the Hays Recreation Center, among many other projects. He was known for his love of family and his enjoyment of outdoor activities such as fishing and hunting. He was also a fan of dirt track racing and enjoyed taking walks with his dogs. His passing was the result of an accidental, self-inflicted gunshot wound.
There were no arrests or suspects involved in the death of Raymond Nieman, as his death was determined to be accidental. He was survived by his wife, Kathy; their two children, Raymond "Todd" Nieman and Brandy Huser; four grandchildren; three brothers; and a sister. Graveside services were held on March 26, 2021, at the Kansas State Veterans Cemetery in WaKeeney, with military honors provided by the Hays VFW Honor Guard.
