Charles Nyquist

Charles A. Nyquist, age 80, of Yankton, South Dakota, passed away peacefully at Avera Sister James Care Center in Yankton on Thursday, April 9, 2026.

Charles was welcomed into the world as a cherished surprise on September 1, 1945 in Spencer, Nebraska to Walter and Florence (Anderson) Nyquist. He grew up on the family homestead in the Randall Valley area, near Pickstown, SD.

From childhood days of riding his horse to school to his years as a basketball player in high school, Charles (Charlie/Chuck) grew to be a man of quiet warmth. Charlie graduated from Pickstown High School in 1963. Following in the footsteps of his older brothers, becoming a serviceman. He enlisted in the United State Air Force and was stationed in Europe during the Vietnam War. Though he was a man of few words regarding his time in service, those experiences shaped the foundation of the man he would become – someone defined by honor, discipline and a heart that stood firmly against injustice.

Following his service, Chuck moved to Yankton. He became the materials manager for Kolberg, which is now ASTEC Industries. Chuck worked for Kolberg for over 25 years. In 1995, they headed to Spencer, IA and he worked for Bobalee Hydraulics for 20 years. After retiring, he moved back to Yankton to enjoy more time with family and friends.

Chuck moved to Yankton after his time in the Air Force and met Marbeth “Beth” Molstad while she was working at the Kochi Hotel in Yankton. They were married on March 13, 1971 at the United Methodist Church in Moville, IA, surrounded by the love of family and friends. Chuck and Beth enjoyed their time together bowling, riding mopeds, and going to the shooting range. Their family was complete with the addition of their daughters, Chrissie and Molly.

Chuck thrived as a ‘girl dad.’ He and Beth provided that the girls had well-rounded experiences. He made sure they could maintain a vehicle and a home (inside and out). It was important to them to make sure their girls were fully capable of taking care of themselves.

Chuck and Beth loved to travel and go on day trips. Each summer held the adventure of a family vacation. They enjoyed camping, boating, fishing and sight-seeing. Whether it was a trip to the Black Hills, Denver, or California, the trips were full of meaningful activities for the family. These vacations were a way that Chuck showed his family it was important to have a balance with family and friends.

Chuck and Beth were able to take their Bucket List trip to Hawaii for their 40th wedding anniversary. They enjoyed every moment of this trip, even though a tsunami threat was issued for the island.

Chuck was active in the Yankton Elks Lodge and the American Legion. These groups carried with them not only the service to the community, but a pack of life-long friends. These friends united in bowling league, card groups, golf league, and numerous camping trips. They played like kids when they got together and are the friends who became family.

Chuck was known for being very observant and his quick wit. He seemed to always know the right answer and be a fountain for advice. Sometimes, the advice was a little, like “Straighten up and fly crooked.” It seemed he always had a purpose for what he said. Later in his life, Chuck loved the company of his dogs. He was deeply loved and will be greatly missed.

Chuck is survived by his two daughters, Chrissie (Allan) Wieseler of Yankton and Molly (Brent) Petersen of Melbourne, FL; six grandchildren: Alex, Bailey and Owen Wieseler, Oliver, Axel and Rex Petersen; and his beloved dog, Katie.

Chuck was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Beth Nyquist on November 24, 2023; two brothers, LeRoy (Ferne) Nyquist and Paul Nyquist; and one sister, Aimee (Bob) Bentz.

A graveside service will take place at a later date, at the Randall Valley Cemetery near Pickstown, South Dakota where both Chuck and his wife, Beth will be laid to rest. Arrangements under the direction of the Wintz & Ray Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Yankton.

Condolences or memorials may be directed to the family in care of the Wintz and Ray Funeral Home at 2901 Douglas Avenue in Yankton, SD 57078.