In Memory of Kent Dale Nugen
Kent Dale Nugen, of Tumwater, departed from his earthly life on Tuesday, July 9, 2024.
Kent was born December 31, 1953, in Arkansas City, Kansas to his parents, Wayne and Dorothy (Walcher) Nugen. Kent and his twin brother Keith, joined older brothers Alan and Mike. He graduated from Ark City High School in 1972 and attended Cowley College. He then graduated from Kansas University in 1976 with a major in structural engineering.
Susan Diane Veatch met Kent at Cowley College in 1973. On August 2, 1980 at the Winfield First United Methodist Church, Kent and Susan married and became life partners. Their first home was in Salina, Kansas, where daughter Michelle and son Chad were born. The family relocated to Lacey and later to Tumwater.
During his professional career, Kent worked for Wilson & Company, Engineers and Architects in Salina, designing and constructing agricultural grain storage structures. He then served as the Saline County Engineer before relocating the family to Washington. Employed by the State of Washington, Kent supervised the design and construction of junior college and state prison facilities. He retired in 2019.
The greatest and proudest of Kent’s accomplishments was raising his two wonderful children, Michelle and Chad. Adding to his joy and blessings are his four lovely and active grandsons; Gabe and Elijah, sons of Michelle and Asher Bailey and Zeb and Atzly, children of Chad and Corinne Veatch.
Kent was devoted to his family and maintained close relationships with his three brothers. Alan Nugen is greatly appreciated for assisting and helping care for Kent during his long illness. They spent many enjoyable hours watching the Seattle Seahawks and University of Kansas sports. His brother Keith, with his wife, Sandy, live in Oklahoma City as does brother Mike.
After a long illness and valiant fight, Kent succumbed to lymphoma. He always maintained consciousness, his dignity and sense of humor while looking forward to feeling better. He crossed over peacefully in his sleep.
A celebration of life and memorial service will be announced at a later date. Cremation has taken place. The family requests friends, family, and acquaintances to send cards or letters in lieu of flowers to: Susan Nugen and family, 3205 Woodland Drive SW, Tumwater, WA 98512. Brief letters and memories of Kent’s life and experiences will be forever treasured.
