Michael was met by Jesus to carry him home to Heaven, Thursday, August 25, 2016.

Michael Thomas Nemecek, 80, was born April 21, 1936 to Jerry and Miriam (Thomas) Nemecek in Rapid City.

Michael graduated from Granby High School in Colorado in 1955. His desire to learn lead him in many directions; attending the University of Denver, Greeley, Northwestern University, returned to the U of Denver, on to Colorado State University, Ft Collins where he received his Masters' Degree.

Michael wrote an earth science textbook which was picked up by schools in California where he taught earth science, chemistry and biology for many years. Remembering his roots in South Dakota, and tiring of the California life style, Michael retired at 47 and returned to Rapid City.

He was an avid bicyclist; (he didn't own a car until returning to Rapid City), tennis was a major part of his life and walking.

Michael was a quiet , introspective man and considered himself an educator.

He married Jane Ann Ryan on June 10, 1995 at St Andrews Episcopal Church in Rapid City.

Michael is survived by Jane, sisters; Karen Nemecek, Rapid City, Cheryl Nemecek – Moody (Gary), Mesa, AZ and Lana Nemecek – Simmons (Dr. Dean), Tacoma, WA. His Mother in Law, Margaret Ryan, Rapid City, his brother in law, Kevin Ryan, his sister in law, Karen Stanley (Lee), Rangeley, CO, nieces; Heather Zadra, Sarah Pauley and nephews; Dustin Ryan, Derek Ryan, Brent Moody, Dean Simmons, Jr, Tom Simmons and Jamie Walls and numerous great nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Miriam Nemecek, Jerry Nemecek and Yvonne Nemecek.

A memorial has been established to Emmanuel Episcopal Church.

A visitation will be held from 5:00pm until 7:00pm on Monday, August 29, 2016 at Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00am on Tuesday, August 30 at St. Andrews Episcopal Church with Fr. Tom Campbell officiating. Interment will be in Mt View Cemetery.

Friends may sign his online guest register and offer condolences at www.osheimschmidt.com.