Richard "Dick" Eugene Nestell

Richard “Dick” Eugene Nestell, age 79, of Portage passed away unexpectedly February 13, 2023. He was born September 21, 1943 in Cadillac, Michigan to the late Donald George and Jeanett Annabelle (Oyler) Nestell.

Dick was a kind and gentle man. He was selfless and giving yet humble and quiet. He loved life and loved his family dearly and was deeply loved by them. His wife was his best friend and love of his life, and his daughters were so very important to him. Dick was a graduate of Western Michigan University and worked briefly before being drafted to the United States Army, serving stateside during the Vietnam War. He returned to work at Bronson Hospital for the next 20 years. He later worked as a substitute teacher with Portage Central Schools, and especially loved working with elementary school children. Dick enjoyed watching sports, especially the Red Wings, Tigers, and UofM Football. He also had a love for animals, having several German Shepherds over the years—most recently, his special companion Gus.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by the love of his life, best friend, and wife of nearly 55 years, Donna Marie (Kakabeeke) Nestell; daughters, Marcie Nestell and Carrie Nestell; and several cousins.

A service will be held Saturday, February 18, 2023 at 11:00 AM at Langeland Family Funeral Homes Burial & Cremation Services, 411 E Centre Ave, Portage, MI 49002, where visitation will be held one hour prior from 10-11:00 AM. Private interment will be in Portage South Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to the SPCA of Southwest Michigan.

To share a memory or leave a condolence for the family, visit https://www.langelands.com