Montezuma – Nelson Allen Jantzen was born to Edgar and Lillie (Holbert) Jantzen on April 16, 1940 at Burns, Kansas. He was called home on June 19, 2023, at Bethel Home in Montezuma, reaching the age of 83 years.

Dad along with his parents and siblings lived in Burns, before moving to Cimarron in 1947. It was during these years he received his formal education. He obtained his GED, and later his certificate of Forestry Service in 1976 from Kansas State University, and his certificate of Fire Service Training in 1988 from the University of Kansas.

On March 27, 1960 Nelson was united in marriage to Patricia Nusz at the Church of God in Christ Mennonite in Montezuma. Their home was blessed with three children; Dennis, Kevin, and Annie. Later mom and dad spent their spiritual life at Gospel Fellowship in Montezuma, where they enjoyed time spent with their church family.

Dad worked at Gray County Road Department for several years and then began working for the City of Montezuma until his accident in 1990.

Dad enjoyed his work with the road department, as well as serving as a volunteer fireman for 20 years. His favorite place to be was outdoors with his dog Max, where he enjoyed wildlife (in particular birds), fishing, and gardening, all which he did well. You could always find him in his shop fixing and building things or helping those in need. Dad loved and cared for his family. He also enjoyed spending time with friends and family, sharing stories from times gone by, as well as spending time with his grandkids, nieces, and nephews teaching them to fish.

Nelson is survived by three children; Dennis Jantzen of Dodge City, Kevin Jantzen and wife, Teena of Meade, and Annie Stegman and husband Tron of Hugoton; a brother, Kenneth Jantzen of Tulsa, Oklahoma; six grandchildren; TJ Williams, Jayde Jantzen, Hayden Jantzen, Avory Stegman, Triston Stegman, and Terron Stegman; and two great- grandchildren with a third arriving soon. He is preceded in death by his wife, Patricia; his parents; two brothers, Melvin Jantzen and Elden Jantzen; and three sisters, Levina Schmidt, Virginia Jantzen, and Lauretta Jantzen.

Graveside service will be at 11:00 AM on Saturday, June 24, 2023 at Morningside Cemetery, Montezuma.  Visitation will be at Swaim Funeral Chapel, Montezuma on Friday, June 23, 2023 from noon to 3:00 PM.  Memorials are suggested to Montezuma Fire Department in care of the funeral home.  Thoughts and memories may be shared in the online guest book at www.swaimfuneralhome.com.