Robert J. (Bob) Nider

Robert J. (Bob) Nider, passed away peacefully in his home on October 11, 2024 after a long fought health battle. Bob was born on February 8, 1957 to Edward and Phyllis (Schultz) Nider. He was born and raised in Montevideo, MN. After high school, Bob attended Canby Area Vo[1]Tech where he earned an associates degree in parts management. Over the course of 45 years, Bob lent his knowledge and talents to Ziegler, Inc (Bloomington, MN and Rochester, MN), St. Joseph’s Equipment (Rochester), Al’s Specialty Marine (Rochester) and Valley Marine (Valley, NE) where he was a respected and valued employee by all. 

Bob welcomed his first daughter, Angela, into his life in 1979. Later, he met his wife Laurie (Matuska) during his time at Ziegler, and they were married December 11, 1981. They bought a house in Byron, MN, and after welcoming two more children, Casie and Ryan, they made this their home for the next 27 years. 

Lovingly known as Papa Bob, he was often found tinkering in his garage with some type of engine or home project. His love for anything with a motor fueled his passion for attending dirt track races all over the state whenever possible. He was a jack of all trades and could fix anything. He was always willing to lend a helping hand and would drop what he was doing to help anyone with anything. Known as the dog whisperer, Bob would become best friends with any dog he ever met. He was often found riding around on his 4-wheeler, often with a kid or dog in tow. His grandkids always looked forward to the water balloons, popcorn, icees, and loads of ice cream that he always had readily available. He had a smile that could light up a room and had the best sense of humor that, at times, only his grandkids understood. Bob’s heart was one of the biggest, and his family, kids, grandkids, and friends meant the world to him. 

He is survived by his wife Laurie; three children, Angela (Andy) Knutson of Elkhorn, NE, Casie (Jeremy) Larsen of Fremont, NE, and Ryan (Courtney) Nider of Byron, MN; 10 grandchildren, Benjamin, Kyla, Camden and Riley Knutson, Bentley, Berkley and Enzley Larsen, Madden, Hudson and Nolan Nider; one brother, Michael (LouAnn) Nider of Mandan, ND, one sister, Patty (Dave) Glomstad of Montevideo, MN; many nieces, nephews and in-laws; and his loyal furry companion, Odie. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Phyllis (Schultz) Nider; father-in-law and mother-in-law Laurence and Ellen Matuska; sister-in-law Bev Nelson; nephews Joshua Johnson and Daniel Denman. 

In his final lap of life, he has finally crossed the finish line. Breathe and fly high. 

Per Bob’s request, no funeral or memorial service will be held. Instead, the family will gather for a private celebration of his life. 

Condolences can be sent to Laurie at 5814 S 191st Terrace, Omaha, NE 68135