Craig Nienhueser

Craig Willard Nienhueser, 68 of Higginsville, Missouri, passed away on Friday, June 13, 2025, at Lafayette Regional Health Center in Lexington, Missouri. He was born Sunday, July 29, 1956 in Lexington and was the son of the late Willard Nienhueser and the late Doris (Hackett) Hinkle. Craig was a graduate of Truman High School in Independence, Missouri. He married Debbie (Boylan) Nienhueser on July 11, 1980, they spent almost 45 years together. Craig worked as a plant supervisor in the chemical manufacturing industry. When his brother Mark passed away, he inherited his brother's bar in Independence. With his love for people and socializing, owning a bar was a perfect fit. Together with his wife Debbie, they sold his brother's bar and successfully opened and managed Niener’s Bar and Grill for over 17 years, creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. The bar became a hub for food, darts, pool leagues, heavy metal bands, and even playing a part in the early days of the internationally known band, Puddle of Mudd. Notable radio host Johnny Dare with staff from 98.9 The Rock, were also frequent guests at Niener’s. Craig lived his life to the fullest, always cherishing time spent with his family and friends. He enjoyed sports and coaching his children's teams. He was a huge sports fan and couldn't wait for Chiefs season to start so he could cheer on the Chiefs. He was always a bright smile in any crowd, a great friend to socialize with, and a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. Surviving are his wife, Debbie of the home; three sons, Rolley Nienhueser of Bowling Green, MO, Keenan Nienhueser of Higginsville, Max Nienhueser of Higginsville; five daughters, Janet Nienhueser of Higginsville, Kayla (Rene) Feliciano Garcia of Lexington, Tori (Jorge) Zuniga of Higginsville, Hannah Nienhueser of Higginsville, and Glo Nienhueser of Higginsville; one sister, Dawn (Donald) Brooks of North Kansas City, MO; fourteen grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Mark Nienhueser; and one grandchild. The family will receive friends on Friday, June 20, 2025 from 10:00 AM-12:00 PM at Stewart-Hoefer Funeral Home, located at 1600 Main St. Higginsville, Missouri 64037. A funeral service will directly follow at 12:00 PM with Rev. Terry Cook officiating. Burial will be in the Calvary Cemetery, Corder, MO. Casket Bearers: Rene Feliciano-Garcia, Kevin Hungerford, Keenan Nienhueser, Max Nienhueser, Jorge Zuniga, Tori Zuniga. Memorials may be made to the American Lung Foundation.

Craig Nienhueser

July 29, 1956 - June 13, 2025