Loren Nishek

Loren Brent Nishek, age 66, of Bismarck, ND, passed away peacefully on October 18, 2025 in his home, in the presence of loved ones and his best girl- his dog Whiskey.

Loren and his twin sister Lori were born on Feb 24, 1959 in Ellendale, ND. The twins were the youngest born of Emil and Lorraine (Sand) Nishek. He was baptized at Zion Lutheran Church on June 7, 1959 and confirmed at Christ the King Lutheran Church on May 5, 1974. Growing up, he learned lifelong skills related to farming and ranching and excelled in high school wrestling and football. After graduating from Ellendale High School in 1977, he went on to attend and graduate from NDSU in 1983 with a degree in Construction Management.

In 1994, he married Laurie (Marchus) Nishek in Minot, ND, and later adopted her two daughters, Stephanie and Joelle. Although their marriage ended, his devotion to his daughters never did.

Throughout his life, Loren was known for being hardworking, loyal and genuine. He enjoyed many outdoor activities, spending time with his grandchildren, woodworking and (most importantly!) NDSU Bison football. In his retirement, he developed a love of walking. Over the course of a year—from spring 2023 to spring 2024—he logged an incredible one million steps, then spent the rest of 2024 conquering the 144-mile Maah Daah Hey Trail.

His career was primarily dedicated to the United States Army Corps of Engineers, with some time in service to Veit Companies. He received numerous regional and national accolades, including the 2012 Construction Hard Hat of the Year award. His colleagues appreciated his no-nonsense guidance and strong leadership.

Loren is survived by his daughters Stephanie Nishek, Bismarck, ND, and her children Cora and Silas, and Joelle (Ryan) Schaan, Minot, ND, and their children Alexia, Kylee and Blake; siblings Bob Nishek, Kauai, HI, Sandra (Mark) Holkup, Bismarck, ND, Lori (Sherman) Cline, Minnewaukan, ND; dear friend Marilyn Stenson, Bismarck, ND; Aunt Elaine Schulenburg, four nieces and nephews, many cousins and chosen family Ernie and Bonnie King and their son Jordan (Faith) King. He was preceded in death by his parents and several aunts and uncles.

A celebration of life will be held on November 15, 2025 at 1 o’clock at the Bismarck Mandan Elks Lodge #1199. All who knew and loved Loren are welcome to attend and share memories. Guests are invited to wear their favorite NDSU fan gear to the service and to join the family immediately afterward for fellowship and the Bison football game. Horns up!

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Loren’s name to a charitable organization, like the NDSU Foundation, Menoken Farms, #SavetheMDH or Sanford Hospice, or simply honor him by spending time in nature.