Troy J Nighswonger's Obituary
Troy, affectionately known as "Tuffy", died peacefully with his family at his side on June 13, 2018 in Puyallup, Washington at the age of 92.
Troy was born in St. Francis, Kansas to Homer and Emma Nighswonger on May 1, 1926. He proudly served his country in the Army in World War II and the Army National Guard for 20 years. Tuffy worked as an electrician and was a member of the IBEW Local 76 in Tacoma for 55 years. His favorite pastimes were teaching his boys to hunt, fish for steelhead and trout, and league bowling. Tuffy was a founder and life member of the VFW Narrows Bridge Post.
In retirement he moved to Cowlitz River where he enjoyed the outdoors, especially fishing and hunting, woodworking, feeding the birds, and welcoming family and friends. Tuffy was known for barbecuing the best steak in town and for cooking'up Papa's pancakes.
Tuffy was preceded in death by his first wife and mother to his children, Victoria (Hoffman), and is survived by his wife of 36 years Dorothy (Cleary). Children are Gary (Chris) Nighswonger, Bruce (Julie) Nighswonger, Craig (Floie) Nighswonger, Linda (Dean) Sirvin and Brian (Kim) Nighswonger. Dorothy‘s children are David (Debbie) Dimond, Debra Burrill (Dean Ward), Denise Kitchell (Ron) deceased, and Diane (Steve) Fuson. Eighteen grandchildren, twenty-six great-grandchildren and one great-great grandson. Tuffy is also survived by his sister Sharon Havens of Sun City. And preceded in death by brothers Tony and Chuck.
Tuffy lived life large and on his terms. He loved a good joke and could give as good as he could take. Above all he loved his family. He will be missed by family and friends but was ready to answer God's call.
A gathering in celebration of Tuffy‘s life will be held from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Friday, June 29 at the VFW Hall, 4741 N. Baltimore St., Tacoma.
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