Ronald Nagaki
October 15, 1949 – October 7, 2026
Ronald Nagaki, 76, of Alliance, Nebraska, passed away with family by his side on October 7, 2026 at Anschutz Hospital in Aurora, Colorado following complications from lung surgery.
Ron was born on October 15, 1949 in Alliance, Nebraska to parents Frank and Mary (Shiba) Nagaki. He graduated from Alliance High School in 1967 and spent a short time traveling and exploring different career options before returning to the family farm in Alliance where he used his skills as a natural mechanic. His love of fast cars led him to meeting and marrying Betty Tryon of Lincoln, Nebraska on September 26, 1972 and they welcomed their only child, Christi, a year later.
When not working on the farm, Ron enjoyed bowling, playing pool, casino trips, fishing, and golf. He appreciated friendly competition, familiar faces, and good times shared with friends. Ron was a man of few words, but when he had something to say, there was little doubt where he stood. He held firmly to his opinions and wasn’t easily convinced otherwise — a trait those who knew him best would surely recognize.
One of Ron’s greatest sources of pride was his daughter, Christi, and two grandchildren, Tanner and Kendall Witt. He enjoyed visiting them in Wisconsin whenever he could and took a special interest in their activities and accomplishments. As his health made traveling more difficult, he continued to follow his grandchildren’s sporting events and graduations online, cheering them on from home. Distance never diminished the pride he felt in watching them grow and succeed.
Ron is survived by his daughter, Christi (Scott) Witt and two grandchildren, Tanner and Kendall Witt of New Berlin, Wisconsin; sisters, Cindy (Pork Chop) Mracek of Alliance, Lori Watson of Alliance, Cheri (Kevin) Rolofson of Normal, Illinois; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Mary Nagaki, an infant brother, and brother-in-law, Paul Watson.
A memorial service will be Saturday, October 24 at 10:00 a.m. at the Bates-Gould Chapel with a reception immediately following at Ron’s second home, the Bowl Mor in Alliance. Inurnment will be held at the Fairview Cemetery in Scottsbluff at a later date. Memorials may be given to Legacy of the Plains Museum, designated to the Japanese Hall at 2930 Old Oregon Trail Gering, NE 69341.
Online condolences may be left at www.batesgould.com