RIO RANCHO, N.M. — Dwight E. Nicolet, 92, passed away peacefully May 6, 2012 at an assisted living residential care facility in Rio Rancho, N.M. after a short battle with pancreatic cancer.
Born on Oct. 1, 1919 in Kinsley, he was the son of E.P. and Laura Nicolet. He lived most of his adult life in Great Bend, moving to New Mexico in 2006. He was employed by the U.S. Postal Department in Great Bend as a mail carrier where he retired after 23 years of service then as a part time mail clerk at Barton County College.
Mr. Nicolet served during World War II in the 489th Armored Field Artillery Battalion and was awarded two Bronze Stars. He was a member of the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars and Elks and a member of Great Bend’s First Christian Church. He loved to read and play cards and was an avid bridge player. Dwight has touched the hearts of many people and will be greatly missed by his family and friends.
Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Ruth; three children, Jim Nicolet and wife, Maria, Sterling, Colo.; Sharon Shaw and husband, Wiley, Albuquerque, N.M.; and Gary Nicolet and wife, Janine, Shawnee; five grandchildren, Kimberly Shaw, Cory Nicolet, Marcie Nicolet, Brian Nicolet and Bryon Nicolet; four great-grandchildren; and his sister, Betty Sloan, Great Bend.
Cremation has taken place and no services are planned. Charitable contributions may be made in Dwight’s name to Hospice of Presbyterian Hospital at 8100 Constitution Place NE, Suite 400, Albuquerque, N.M. 87110.
An online guest book for Dwight can be viewed at www.remembertheirstory.com.

Great Bend (Kan) Tribune, May 13, 2012*