Jared Nilles
July 26, 1984 ~ March 19, 2012
Jared Ralph Nilles, 27, Fargo, North Dakota passed away Monday, March 19, 2012.
Jared was born on July 26, 1984 in Fargo. He was lovingly welcomed by his parents Ralph and Carolyn Nilles and his three siblings. Jared attended Fargo Public Schools and graduated from Fargo South in 2003.
After high school Jared attended Minneapolis Community and Technical College where he graduated with a degree in filmmaking and scriptwriting.
In his youth Jared was active in Patriots Hockey, Fargo South Theater-Donkey Hotey's, Red River Valley Soccer Association, and Trollwood. He was a confirmed member of Olivet Lutheran Church.
During Jared's life he wore many hats including paperboy, server, director of summer theater, and filmmaker. While living in Minneapolis he was active in the community of Uptown, The Brave New Workshop and Stevie Ray's Comedy Cabaret.
Jared studied and performed at various improv theaters and was a sanctioned performer with Improv Olympics in Chicago.
Jared loved the outdoors and eagerly participated in any adventure. He had a passion for life and was discovering the power of God. He was dedicated to many endeavors and anyone who knew him was richer for it.
Jared is survived by his parents Ralph and Carolyn Nilles, Fargo, his maternal grandparents Samuel and Genevive Dalberg, New Brighton, MN, his brother Joel (Rachel) Nilles, Fargo, and sisters Rachel (Jake) Cremer, Hot Springs, MT, and Nadine (Rob) Lloyd, Eleuthera, Bahamas, nephews Isaac, Noah, and Jericho Cremer, Jadon Nilles, and niece Darian Cremer as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and immeasurable friends. He is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents.
In lieu of flowers please send a memorial in Jared's honor.
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It’s hard to believe it’s almost been half a year since you passed away brother. I think of you every day, but really, I think of you every 15 minutes or so. It’s still hard to believe you’re not with us. You lived in the moment and always found something to laugh at. But what I always liked most about you was that you always saw the good in things, even when they weren’t always good. You were a defender of movies. Even bad ones. You loved people. Even strange ones. Its a gift.
I love you brother. And I miss you a lot.
Will always remember the fun times we shared together. RIP Jared.
Oklahoma City OKFrom a teammate, to a friend, Jared was always a valuable member of our community. Never down, always showing people a good time. It is shocking to think that we are going to have to get by without him.
Jared, you will be missed.
God Bless,
AJ Erickson
I can’t imagine what South High would’ve been like without you. I hardly had the chance to know you- i was a sophomore when you were senior-but you, Nilly, were literally a legend to us, long before you even graduated. I’m sure you inspired a countless number of people to participate in theatre, the least of which was me. If not for your passion for the theatre and your nack for making it look easy, I doubt that I would have ever even taken a class from Mrs. Stark. Thank you. And I hope for you and your family, that you rest in peace.
One more time, Free Nilly!
Chicago ILNews of Jared’s passing is still unbelievable to me and makes my stomach cringe. I had the pleasure of doing my very first improv performance with him in Chicago and many rehearsals leading up to that night. Despite reaching milestones within the Chicago improv community much faster than I, he always went out of his way to chat with me and offer words of encouragement as I tried to get better. I’ll never forget your kindness buddy. R.I.P.
I am so sorry for your loss. Jared was such a fun loving guy. I pray for you during this difficult time.
Grand Forks Ralph and Carolyn,
I’m so sorry to hear about Jared’s passing. I can only imagine the depth of loss you and your family feels. My hope for you is that you can carry his creative and wonderful spirit throughtout your own lives as you continue to hold him near you. I’m also sorry I wasn’t able to attend the funeral as I was traveling out of state.
Sincerely,
LaVetta
Wadena MN
I was blessed to have witnessed Jared’s spunky, crazy antics when he spent part of his summers at Trollwood. He was wildly creative, and thrived in the improv and video production classes there. I know how much he is loved by his Trollwood friends, and am sure that same deep affection is held by everyone else who knew him. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this time of such a tragic loss.
Carolyn & Ralph, I am friends with Darlene B. from Bethel Churdh. I never met Jared – or you guys, but Darlene asked for prayers for your family. I’ve been praying for you both and your family this past week. I am so sorry for your loss. Jared sounds like he was an awesome guy. I hope to meet you someday and give you a hug. I’ll continue to pray for you. I really hope That someone at Jared’s service shared the gospel and the message of Hope we can have in Jesus. Much love to you-
Minnesota
To the Nilles family: I know Rachel Nilles through my niece Andrea Nelson and I want to extend my sincerest sympathy to your entire family. May God ease your pain.
I didn’t know you long and this saddens me deeply. I will choose to remember you by your bight smile and playful way. I remember you always had a way of cheering people up and making them feel special. Your passing leaves an great emptiness in all of our hearts. May you rest in peace knowing how truly loved and deeply missed you will be by us all.
Our hearts are aching for you. Such a beautiful, gifted soul taken too soon. One can only imagine that his gentle, creative energy will continue to delight through warm memories. Know that we will surrounding you with loving thoughts during the days and months ahead.
Fargo, ND
Meeting you in middle school got me through it for sure. You were so funny and so positive. I enjoyed seeing you passing between classes at school and your zest for life you showed with a single grin. I was really looking forward to seeing you next year for our reunion because I haven’t seen you since we graduated! You were definitely an essential part of the class of ’03. You were taken far too soon but you are once again a “free Nilly.” See you again in Heaven!
I wish your dear family and friends peace during this difficult time and that you will all be in my thoughts and prayers.
Fargo ND
Jared was such a kind and caring person to everyone he met and had a great love for comedy. He could always make someone smile when they needed it the most. He definately touched alot of lives in such a special way, as he did mine. I will miss you Jared, my dear friend.
Fargo ND
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Nilles family. Jared was an amazing person! His loving personality will be missed my many and never forgotten!
Fargo ND
Although we have never met, I share your sorrow because however distantly we are related, we are family. My father was Herbert T. Nilles of Casselton, ND
, and was a cousin of Herbert G. and John Nilles, attorneys.
May the Loving Lord give you the strength and faith to endure the trying times ahead, knowing that Jared has won life’s final race.
west fargo ndI am very sorry for your loss.I met jared last year and he was a great guy. we did not hang out much,but I did appreciate knowing him.
Lonepine, MT In the few short months that I was able to get to know Jared last summer, we became instant great friends. The world truly is less without him. He was very fun and a really nice guy. My heart hurts for all of you going through this difficult time of great loss. You are in our continued thoughts and prayers. Jared will be greatly missed by the whole Hot Spring Bible Church. His time spent here will always be fondly remembered. His life was too short.
Much love and prayers to you all.
Lance and Shelly Ambo
Fargo ND
I am SO VERY sorry for your loss!!
I can Not imagine anything worse, and I keep you in my thoughts and prayers as you continue to travel through all of what this involves.
Newport News VAI was deeply saddened to hear the news. I will always remember the days spent at the Nilles’ with Nadine, Shaina, Adam, and Jared. They were such great years. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time, but remember Jared will live on in all of our memories.
Ralph, Carolyn and family
My thoughts and prayers are with you. God be with you all.
Ralph, Carolyn and Family,
We are so terribly sorry for the loss of your precious Jared. It’s obvious he was a creative, loving, gifted spirit who will be missed by all who knew him. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Much love!
Fargo ND
May the angels watch over you now, may your body rest in peace, your spirit soar above us watching over. May your jokes always be told, your laughter always heard and your smile never be forgotten. May you finally rest in peace knowing now that you are truly home. You were an amazing guy Nilly with a gift of laughter and happiness to the world around you! You will never be forgotten!! Rest in Peace Jared Nilles!!!
Fargo ND
Dear Carolyn, Ralph, and family,
May God’s loving promise to be with us always help you through this tragedy. We know the many precious memories you have of Jared will help keep him close in your hearts. Please know we think of you each day and keep you in our prayers.
Jared was such a kind, delightful person to know. His personality and smile brightened up the room as soon as he walked in. His love for the arts and improv will now be shared with our loved ones in heaven. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends. You will be missed, Jared, but we know that you are smiling down on us. We will never forget your smile :0)
Ottawa OntarioI was so sorry to hear the sad news about Jared. I know the Nilles and Dalberg families are very loving and caring and to lose a treasured family member at such a young age is unimaginable. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this tragic and heart-wrenching time.
Hot Springs MontanaJared became a dear friend in the short time we knew him. We are deeply saddened that he is gone, but hopeful that our reunion is not far off. Pathwalker camp won’t be the same without him. But I’m so happy that he had such an intense time of focus upon the love and grace of Jesus while he was here.
Minneapolis MN
Something I’ll always remember about Jared was his smile, and how contagious it was. His kindness, laughter and smile will be among the many things that will be missed. He was a great classmate, neighbor, and friend.
Valley City ND
As a distant relative, I just viewed Jared’s indelible talents directing “The Bird Hunter’s Lament”. Bravo!!!
Arlington VirginiaI’m at a loss for words…
If I would have known the last time I ran into you, over 5 years ago in Uptown, would be the last time I had a chance to talk with you, I would have stuck around much longer than I did. My heart goes out for your family and those closest to you. Rest in peace you friendly, loving, freckled-faced man.
RIP Nilly.
I am so sorry, Ralph. You and your Family are in my thoughts and prayers. May God grant you serenity.
Mary
Bismarck ND
Nilles family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. I hope that the memories of Jared’s smile and laughter bring you comfort and peace in the days to come.
My thoughts and prayers are with the Nilles family during this time. It was great to get to know Jared throughout high school and have many memories from Donkey Hotey’s and the shannigans we had. God bless.
Fargo ND
Ralph and Carolyn, our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this most difficult time.
Fargo ND
Carolyn & Family: My thoughts & prayers are with you. I pray the pleasant memories of the past will carry you through this trying time. May God bless each of you.
Moorhead MN
Dear Ralph and Carolyn,
Our hearts goe out to you and your family. Words cannot express our sympathy for all of you. Please cherish the wonderful memories you have of Jared. Although we never met him, he seems to be loved by many. Our love and prayers for your family.
Moorhead MN
Some sun and fun left this world with the passing of Jared, but there will be a bright star added to the darkest nights. As his teacher, I could count on that sparkling smile to enter the class on a daily basis. Thank you, Jared, for making my 2003 senior English class so alive. You and your family are in my thoughts.
Jared was one of the most contagious people I have ever met! He could brighten your day just with his smile, and have you laughing so hard your cheeks would hurt! This is such a tragic loss to those who knew Jared and those who had yet to meet him. He could win you over with kindness, compassion, hilarity, and friendship no matter who you are. We shared moments together with friends throughout high school that I will never forget and cherish for the rest of my life. Jared you were a diamond in the rough and truly a wonderful and loving human being! Watch over our loves ones for us! Until we meet again, rest in peace Jared!
One of the things I remember most about Jared is his smile along with his great energy and spirit. My heart goes out to Jared’s family and great friends.
Plymouth MIRalph and Carolyn…oh my God how sorry I am to hear of the tragic loss of your young son. My heart goes out to you. I don’t know your children. It’s been so many years since we’ve seen each other. But as I read the multiple tributes to Jared, I am overwhelmed with the realization of what a great family you must have and what outstanding parents you have been. I am so sorry. Larry
Fargo Just saw Jared’s amazing and contagious smile the other week and it’s hard to believe he’s gone. He left behind so many wonderful memories that will never be forgotten. You will be missed forever and we will meet again someday my friend.
I didn’t know Jared very well, but was good friends with his brother Joel in High School. I can hardly begin to imagine what losing a little brother would be like. It sounds like he was such a positive presence in so many people’s lives. Joel, Rachel, Nadine and all of Jared’s family and friends, I’m very sorry for your loss.
Nate Bailly
Altenglan Rhineland-PfalzJared is one of the greatest people I have ever known.
fargo ND
Dear Caroline, Ralph & family,
We are going to miss Jared so much! We have so many wonderful memories of watching this great young man grow up. He was the first to welcome us to the neighborhood with a bag of apples from your tree! He & Jessa would walk to the bus stop every day. Jared, Travis, Lindsey & Jessa would come here after school many times and raid the cupboards! Jared would always come over when he saw you out in the yard & give you a big hug and a smile- he could light up your day! Hopefully he is still doing that for those in heaven. May God bless & keep each of you.
Don & Cathy
Fargo ND
Carolyn,
I am so sorry for your loss and am sending heartfelt condolences to you and your family. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs to you and yours during this difficult time.
Susan Schwartzbauer
(co-worker – Banner Health System)
There is nothing I can say about Jared that hasn’t already been said, but it cannot be reiterated enough. Jared (“J-Rod”, as I liked to call him) was one of the most vibrant personalities I’ve known. He was so fun, incredibly charismatic, and a caring soul. We had a blast pulling a “prank” on FSH the night before graduation (that did not go over well! Hence, “Free Nilly”), having a blast at OAR concerts, and just general fun and crazy times. He will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Nilles family & all of Jared’s close buds who are deeply mourning. Here’s to Jared!
Fargo ND
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Nilles Family in this time of sorrow….God Bless you all and you are in my prayers.
Drayton ND
Jared had a thirst for life. He could cheer anyone with his sense of humor or even just his smile. I’ll never forget his creativity, warmth, and positive energy. We were all blessed to have Jared in the class of ’03. He and his family will remain in our prayers for a long time to come.
rutland north dakota You will a truly missed guy jared! You may have left us, but in return, you have also given us a treasure, that is the memories that you’ve spent with us.
Fargo ND
Will always remember his smile and great attitude towards life. Will never forget the “Free Nilly” last day of school in 2003. Thinking of you and your family.
Jared was a great friend and classmate. He had the greatest smile and an overall joy for life. He was a true example of what it meant to live life to the fullest. He will be forever missed by so many.
Fargo Rachel, I am so sorry for your loss. You seemed so strong reading the statement to the media. I will be thinking of you and praying for contiuned strength for you and your family during this awful time.
Cedar Creek TXI am so sorry to hear of your loss. My son (Jake Hartje) and Jared were such buddies ~ and I remember the times he spent at our home ~ the crazy/zany times of high school. My heart goes out to you and I send my prayers to your family. RIP beloved Jared.
My heart goes out to everyone who knew Jared. He was a kind, caring, and very funny person who could always bring a smile to anyone’s face!! Wonderful Memories and Love for his Family during this painful time.
Sioux Falls SDOh Jared you left this earth to soon but I know you will probably be starting ur own improv group up in heaven. And I’m sure theres lots of work to do! You were such an amazing guy with such a great personality I will never forget our memories together pepper concert, Rutland, and being in nillys basement! Plus many more memories that only me and you will remember be at peace u will be greatly missed in this world : )
Rutland, ND
I had the the pleasure of being in every single summer theater play that Jared and JJ directed. I don’t think any kid that was in any of those plays could say anything bad about them, Jared especially. Jared was pretty much one of the kids. He was one of the funniest guys that I’ve ever met. Both him and JJ would come up with great games for use kids to play, such as the samurai game in which Jared was the samurai and had the funniest impressions of one. There was never really a dull moment when he was around. I will always keep these memories with me. My thoughts and prayers are with all of Jared’s family and friends. Rest in peace, Jared.
I only knew Jared for a few weeks when I worked with him. He was truly and amazing guy! Such a big heart, and amazing personality. So sorry for your loss.
Fargo ND
Jared you were one of the kindest souls I have ever met. You were always fun to be around. Your vibrant personality would always draw people to you. Free Nilly!
I’m glad we reconnected a couple weeks ago but wish we could have done a project together like we were discussing. You had an infectious, positive energy that makes the world dimmer without you here.
I know I’ll see you again someday – much love.
Overland Park KSWe are so sorry for your loss. Words can not express feelings at a time like this. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Murrieta CaliforniaI am deeply saddened and sorry for every ones loss. Jared’s shoes are unfillable. I can’t think of anyone else who’s personality comes even close to as amazing as his was. Heaven shined through Jared. I found this online and it reflects some of my thoughts right now, I hope it helps with some others thoughts as well.
My Friend when I think of you.
I think of all that we’ve been through.
All the times we argue and fight,
I know deep inside that it isn’t right.
I, then feel bad and alot of pain.
It feels like I’ve fallen from the sky like the rain.
I love you dear friend with all of my heart.
But now that you’re gone I’ve fallen apart.
I’m getting better as the days go by.
I wish sometimes this was all a big lie.
I pray to you every night.
It’s like you’re my fire, a burning light.
My dear friend, I miss you alot.
I still wonder why you were put in that spot.
I know you’re in a place much better than here.
Watching and helping me with all of my fear.
Our friendship my dear friend,
we will have to the end.
Friends til the end is what we will be.
Someday we’ll be together,
together you and me.
Love you Nilly.
Colorado Springs COYou were an amazing person, Jared! You did so many things for so many people… you were truly a special person. I will never forget the things you have done for me! We all love you buddy! Free Nilly!
Whenever I saw Jared he had a goofy, yet fun smile. I had the pleasure of performing in some comedy shows with him and I will remember him doing what he loved to do.
Fargo ND
Carolyn, Ralph & Family – I am so very sorry for your sudden loss of your son and brother.
Carolyn,
My deepest sympathies go out to you at the death of your son. I am so sorry to hear of your lossa and my condolences are with you and your family at this difficult time.
God be with you.
Karen
I am so sorry for your loss. This has to be just a terrible time for all of you.
Dorothy
(LHS co-worker with Carolyn)
At the very least, Jared will be missed for his charisma and positive spirit. God bless.
Omaha NEJared, we are all so lucky to have had you in our lives. When I think of all the different personalities in the Class of 2003, your kindness and generosity of spirit shines a quiet confidence driven by a genuine love for life. Certainly, you have touched many lives, Jared. I can’t imagine anyone that isn’t better because they knew you, if only too briefly.
Sioux City IAJared was such a kind soul. He greeted everyone and anyone with a kind, loving smile and always made me feel welcome. He was a very special person who will be missed by many. Romans 8:38-39 For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Jared was such a kind soul. He always greeted everyone and anyone with a smile and made them feel so incredibly loved and welcome. He was a very special person who will be missed by many.
Jared is one of the few people you remember when u think of the class of ’03 and he will be remembered always!!
Valley City ND
Words can not express feelings at a time like this
You have my deepest sympathy and condolances to the family.
I won’t be able to make the funeral but I will be prayng for Jared.
You were one of a kind and will be remembered and missed by all you touched. Thanks for the memories you privileged me with
Bullhead City I will forever cherish the memories of getting split up in Mrs Such’s English class and the time we went swimming in the “Quad”, and so many others. I could always count on you to brighten my day. My thoughts and prayers are with your family in this very difficult time.
Fargo ND
Words seem inadequate to express the sadness of such a loss. Jared was a wonderful person and will be missed deeply by many.
Moorhead Minnesota
I love you so much, you’ll never know. Your vibrant personality will be with us forever, and so will the ink we share on our ankles. Can’t tell you how much I miss you already, and until we meet again, you’ll always be in my heart. I love you Nilly.
Fargo ND
You will forever be missed.
Jared was a contagious and handsome spirit. He had this light that beamed from him. So powerful and bright that he will always glow in our hearts. When I picture him, I will always remember that boyish smile. Godbless the family and friends. When it gets dark, remember his light.
Jared, you are missed dearly. We went to highschool together but mostly got to know each other pretty well through working together Granite City. We all will miss you soo much. Personally I will miss your rosie cheeks and big blue eyes, you were such a sweetheart and so pleasant to have around. We love you and miss you
Robbinsdale mnOne thing that I will never forget about Jared is the love he had for his family and friends. In the years I knew Jared he always spoke of his family and friends with pride and happiness. Prayers for peace for all who were touched by Jared’s life. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest” Matthew 11:28
Jared was a fun loving guy who I enjoyed seeing during my high school years. He will be missed dearly. Rest in Peace friend.
Jared was a great classmate who will be missed dearly. May the sound of his laughter remain close to all his family and friends.
Jared was an essential part of the class of 2003, he will be missed dearly! Thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this time.
Something made me think of you today you are in my prayers today