Herbert Harry “Herb” Nitz, 96, passed from this world surrounded by loved ones on July 31, 2026.
Early Life & Military Service
Herb was born in Stanley, Wisconsin, on June 18, 1930, the youngest child of Charles and Merle Nitz, following brothers Alvin and Wayne and sisters Florence and Fern.
After graduating from high school, he joined the Army National Guard. Heeding the call to “go west, young man”, Herb left for the great State of Idaho at the age of 17. He ended his National Guard days in Idaho after 18 years, finishing at the rank of Sargeant in the tank division.
Marriage & Family
Herb’s first job in Idaho was working in the orchards. Deciding that was not a career choice, he went to work at Marshall Church Furniture and Fixtures in Payette. There he began what would be a life-long career of woodworking, and met a lovely young receptionist named JoAnne Baines.
The two married in a simple wedding in her parents’ yard on July 22, 1950 and they settled in Payette where their first son, Erich, was born. The young family settled in a house on Dill Drive in Boise, where son Gregory and daughter Kathryn joined the family.
A Life of Woodworking
It was during this time that Herb and his friend Dick Miller started Miller and Nitz Cabinets and Millwork, making custom cabinets, fixtures, and millwork for banks, schools, hospitals, stores and offices throughout the Treasure Valley and the state, with some jobs taking them out of state.
Eventually Herb bought Dick’s share of the business and re-branded it as Nitz Cabinet and Millwork, Inc. He and his three sons and numerous employees spent many years completing custom jobs until Herb retired and closed the business in 2007.
Home, Cabin & Family Memories
In 1960 Herb and JoAnne bought property south of Meridian and worked together building a new home for their family. This house saw the arrival of their youngest son, Fred, and was home to Herb and JoAnne for the rest of their lives.
With this experience under their belts, they purchased property outside of Lowman and built a lovely cabin that the family enjoyed for many years of hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, cutting down trees for firewood (Herb’s favorite pastime), and spending time together as the children married and grandchildren arrived.
Companionship with Dottie
After JoAnne’s passing, Herb found companionship once again when a mutual acquaintance introduced him to Dottie Neher at a gun show. Herb and Dottie quickly discovered shared interests and became close companions.
Since 2013, they have journeyed together—enjoying trips to the cabin and exploring new places, simply embracing life’s moments. Dottie brought renewed joy to Herb’s days and, as his health declined, provided steadfast care and support.
Survived By
Herb is survived by his sister Fern; his children Erich (Patti) Nitz of Fruitland, Idaho; Greg (Kris) Nitz of Pine, Idaho; Kathryn Burns of Meridian, Idaho; and Fred Nitz of Meridian, Idaho.
His grandchildren are Ryan (Bethany) Nitz-Maile; Janice Nitz Wilson (Shane Kuhlman); Joseph Nitz; Jordan (Lucas) Varela; Travis (Laura) Lind; Dustin Lind; Ashley (Robert) Nitz; Angela Nitz (Michael Kissler); and Arica (Brad) Todd.
His great-grandchildren are Nicholas (Tiffany) Wilson; Harriet and Margaret Nitz-Maile; Hadley and Decklyn Varela; Abigail and Elizabeth Lind; Brian Nitz; Nyla Lima; Zayley Kissler; and Aria, Bennett, and Brantlee Todd.
His great-great grandchildren are Rhiley Hutchinson, Austin (Junior) Ford, and Payton Wilson.
He is also survived by his companion, Dottie Neher.
Preceded in Death
Herb was preceded in death by his loving wife JoAnne, his parents, sister Florence, and brothers Alvin and Wayne.
A Special Thank You
The family extends heartfelt appreciation to the medical staff at St. Luke’s Meridian and St. Luke’s Boise for their compassionate care and support during Herb’s final days. Their kindness toward both Herb and his loved ones brought comfort in a difficult time.
The family is also deeply grateful to the ambulance crews who ensured Herb’s transportation was safe and caring.
Funeral Services
The family will host a viewing on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at:
Summers Funeral Home
3629 E. Ustick Road
Meridian, Idaho
Funeral services will be held Thursday, August 13, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Summers Funeral Home.
Family burial will take place later at Meridian Cemetery.
