Elmer W. Nimtz, 87, lifelong resident of Belvidere passed away Friday morning July 8, 2005 at Swedish American Hospital in Rockford. He was born February 11, 1918 in Belvidere the son of William A. Nimtz and Bertha Kugath. He married Marian A. Schauer on November 16, 1947 in Belvidere. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary prior to her passing on April 10, 1998. He served in the US Army during WWII in the Pacific Theatre. During his service he received the Combat Infantryman Badge and his unit also won a Presidential Citation for heroic action. He was a carpenter and worked for several firms as a job foremen until his retirement in 1981. He was a member of the carpenters union locals both Rockford and Chicago. He was a member of St. Johns United Church of Christ. He loved gardening and selling his produce. He won the John Stienecher Memorial Trophy for his Wandering Jew and Swedish Ivy plants at the Mens' Garden Club Flower and Vegetable Show. He raised and showed White King Pigeons. He also raised St. Bernard pups and had them as pets all his life. He especially enjoyed family activities.He is survived by sons; Russell (Avle) Nimtz, Roger Nimtz, daughter; Judy (Ronald) Stoyak, grandchildren; Ryan and Rory Nimtz, sister; Florence (Robert) Fitch all of Belvidere, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is predeceased by parents, wife, daughter; Linda Sue Nimtz, and step-mother Lena (Behnke) Nimtz.The family would like to thank the staff of The Willows on Main for the past 7 years of care for Elmer.

Memorials may be given to St. Johns United Church of Christ in his name.