Saturday, February 15, 2025

Honor John Nyswonger

June 20, 1941 - January 20, 2025

Posted

Hon. John Stephen Nyswonger It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Hon. John Stephen Nyswonger, affectionately known as "The Judge," on January 20, 2025, at the age of 83.

A beloved husband, father, grandfather, Navy veteran, and dedicated public servant, Steve's life was a testament to integrity, service, and love for his family.

Born on June 20, 1941, in Stillwater, Oklahoma, Steve was the son of Stanley W. and Mary Jane Nyswonger. He grew up in Topeka, Kansas, graduating from Topeka High School before earning his undergraduate degree in engineering and subsequently his law degree from Washburn University School of Law, laying the foundation for a distinguished career in the legal profession.

On September 3, 1966, Steve married the love of his life, Faith Marie Owens, and together they built a family defined by love, respect, and shared values.

He is survived by Faith, their sons Matthew Nyswonger (wife Kristy) of Manhattan, Kansas, and Luke Nyswonger (wife Kelley) of San Diego, California, as well as four grandchildren: Jake Nyswonger, Serena Anwar, Kirstyn Nyswonger, and Kaylee Nyswonger.

He was preceded in death by their son, Scott Xeland, and his siblings, Janie Palubinski and Stan Nyswonger.

Steve proudly served his country as a naval officer during the Vietnam War. As a flight intelligence advisor with the Naval Advisory Group in Southeast Asia, he played a critical role in planning and executing combat missions, often under hazardous conditions.

Additionally, Steve conducted intelligence gathering aboard Patrol Boat, Riverine (PBRs), navigating challenging waterways to support critical military operations and ensure the success of his missions. His work involved analyzing intelligence data to support operations, ensuring the safety and success of his fellow servicemen. Steve flew numerous missions alongside pilots, earning the prestigious Air Medal for his meritorious achievements. His courage, analytical brilliance, and unwavering dedication to his duty were hallmarks of his service, reflecting the highest traditions of the United States Navy. His experiences in the Navy shaped his resilience and commitment to serving others, qualities that he carried into his legal career.

Before embarking on his legal career, Steve worked in a Pennsylvania steel mill, an experience that shaped his work ethic and resilience. He began his legal career in Garden City, Kansas, as an attorney before achieving a major milestone in his life—being appointed district judge for the 25th Judicial District. His swearing-in ceremony was a moment of pride and celebration, attended by family, friends, and colleagues who admired his integrity and dedication.

As a judge, Steve was known for his fairness, compassion, and keen legal insight. His courtroom was a place where justice was served with respect and dignity, earning him the trust and admiration of peers, attorneys, and the community alike. Steve was renowned for his unwavering integrity and fairness, a judge whose reputation for impartiality and wisdom led many to seek him out for their cases. He was deeply respected for his ability to balance compassion with justice, making him a pillar of the judicial community.

Steve served with distinction in this role until his retirement in 2000, at which time he relocated to Concordia, Kansas, to embrace a quieter life filled with crossword puzzles, golf, and cherished time with family. Steve's faith was central to his life.

A devout Catholic, he found strength and guidance in his spirituality. During the 1970s and 1980s, he was an active member of the Shriners, dedicating his time to charitable work and fostering community connections.

He also loved traveling, an interest sparked by his military service. Among his most treasured trips was the "100 Year Anniversary Trip" to Ireland, celebrating 50 years of marriage with Faith and 25 years of marriage for each of his sons. During this unforgettable trip, Steve kissed the Blarney Stone, marveled at the Ring of Kerry, and shared pints of Guinness with his sons in an Irish pub, savoring the camaraderie and heritage they celebrated together.

An avid fan of NASCAR, the Pittsburgh Steelers, and hockey, Steve found joy and connection in sports.

He also cherished time with his grandchildren, creating memories filled with love and laughter. As a father, he was a pillar of strength and wisdom, teaching life lessons on and off the golf course, tackling calculus problems late into the night, and encouraging military service by sharing wisdom from his own experiences.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to the caregivers, staff, and nurses at Ascension Living Via Christi Village for their exceptional compassion and care during Steve's final days.

A memorial service celebrating Steve's extraordinary life will be held on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at 10 a.m. CST at Ascension Living Via Christi Village in Manhattan, Kansas. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Steve's honor to the Wounded Warrior Project at https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/donate.

The Yorgensen-Meloan-Londeen Funeral Home, 1616 Poyntz Avenue, Manhattan, Kansas 66502, is assisting the family with service arrangements. ymlfuneralhome.com