Joe David Nieman, 76
Joe David Nieman walked off a mountain into the arms of his parents Lorraine and Douglas Nieman on the 13th of May, 1944. He returned to the highest of peaks on Nov. 11, 2020, in search of the ripest of huckleberries.
A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21, 2020, at the Lakeview Funeral Home with Pastor Eric Rust officiating.
Joe was a strong man. A proud veteran. A beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. Joe was a gambler, a record keeper, a serious man, and a storyteller. He fought in every war, partied with the wildest outlaws, and knew the actual price of every item on The Price is Right, even when the show got it wrong. He’s likely the most recognizable from behind the counter of the Co-Op where he worked for 40 years. He was also known as The Huckleberry King, or the world’s fastest huckleberry picker — both titles he was immensely proud of.
Joe served in the military from 1962 to 1967. Upon returning home to Bonners Ferry, he married Bonnie Meddock and had four beloved children. Joe later moved the family to Sandpoint, where he resided for the rest of his life. Above all things, Joe was a face recognized by everyone. He was a character remembered forever, and who will be dearly missed.
He is survived by his four children, Alexa (Mike) Matier, Joelle Nieman, David “Josh” (Taffy) Nieman, and Sarah (David) Resso, all of Sandpoint; a brother, Stuart (Ginger) Nieman of Deer Lake; and sister-in-law, Jacki Nieman of Oregon. He is also survived by his seven grandchildren, Danielle “Worm” Nieman, Patrick Kummer, Rosie Kummer, Jenna Matier, Lili Nieman, Libby Resso, and Carson Resso; as well as countless cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Douglas Nieman and Lorraine Cossairt; a stepfather, Carl Cossairt; an older brother, Bill Nieman; and a granddaughter, Ashlie Marie Mellott.
In lieu of flowers or donations, please visit your favorite casino, drop a $20 in a slot machine, and roll with it, baby.
Lakeview Funeral Home in Sandpoint is handling the arrangements. Please visit Joe’s online memorial at www.lakeviewfuneral.com and sign his guest book.
