Rainer Nitsche, 75, passed away Saturday, May 30, 2026, at Lutheran Living in Muscatine.

Rainer was born August 14, 1950, in Meersberg, Germany, the son of  Gerhard and Theodora (Kleinert) Nitsche. He was educated in Germany, where he earned a degree in Engineering and proudly served in the Germany Navy for 2 years. In 1983, he immigrated to the United States and began a long career in manufacturing, working various jobs throughout the plastics industry. Most recently, he was employed with Plastic Mold Injection in West Branch until his retirement.

On November 9, 2019, Rainer was united in marriage to Donna Utsler in Hills. Together they enjoyed traveling and especially looked forward to spending their winters in Florida.

In his younger years, Rainer was an accomplished shooter and participated in 4-H shooting sports. He later shared his knowledge and passion with others by teaching trap shooting.

Rainer is survived by his wife, Donna Nitsche of Hills; his children, Amy Nitsche of New Smyrna, Florida, Lisa Exline of Columbus Junction, Tami (Rod) Plank of Riverside, and Tony (Corie) Williams of Iowa City. He is also survived by his sister, Renate Geosselein of Germany; brother, Winfred Wanka from Germany; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister and brother in law.

Memorials may be directed to Compassus Hospice or Rock Steady Boxing, an organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals living with Parkinson's disease.

Funeral arrangements are pending.