Service Schedule

Visitation

Christian Henry Nissen was born June 14, 1935 near Lake Wilson, Murray County, Minnesota, the son of Carl H. W. and Anna (Michael) Nissen.  Chris attended Country School and then went on to receive his Bachelor’s Degree from South Dakota State University (SDSU).  He also attained his Master’s Degree in Agronomy at SDSU.  Chris then spent four years at the University of Minnesota, where he earned his degree of Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) in 1962.  He was an active member of Gamma Sigma Delta (for students in agriculture) and Phi Zeta (for students in veterinary medicine) while attending the U of M.  Chris was also a member of the social fraternity, Alpha Zi, where he served several positions.

Upon graduating with his DVM, Chris moved to the Mankato area where he worked for four years.  In 1966, “Doc” made the move to Appleton, where he would spend the rest of his 40-year career, retiring in 2005.

Chris passed away Monday, July 25, 2016 in Rice Memorial Hospital in Willmar.  He attained 81 years, 1 month, and 11 days of age.  He is survived by his wife, Anna of Appleton; step-children: LuAnn (Bob) Rheingans of Appleton, Bob (Sherry) Steinle of Victoria and Jim (Jamie) Steinle of Fergus Falls; Brad Huckle of Arden Hills;  7 grandchildren: Jordan Rheingans, Kyle Rheingans, Nathan Steinle, Amanda Gardner, Allison Steinle, Jacob Steinle, and Keith Huckle; 5 great-grandchildren: Addison Rheingans, Julia Steinle, Greta Steinle, Eva Gardner, and Andrew Rheingans; sister, Erna in Luverne, MN; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.  Chris was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Anna Nissen; step-daughter, Barbara Steinle-Huckle; one brother; and four sisters.

Blessed be the memory of Chris “Doc” Nissen.