Cindy Nitcher, 73, died at her home surrounded by loved ones on August 16, 2025. She passed following an extended illness.
Cindy was born on January 22, 1952, in Dodge City, Kansas, the daughter of Donald Eugene Imel and Gertrude Stella (Douglass) Imel. She graduated from Dodge City High School and completed one year of education at Garden City Community College. She moved to Lawrence, Kansas in January, 1972.
Cindy was employed the majority of her professional life at the University of Kansas where she worked for over 35 years. During the first half of her career at KU, she served in numerous capacities in the Division of Continuing Education, including Assistant to the Dean. Cindy served the last half of her career at KU Human Resources as a Senior Recruitment Coordinator.
She married Ron Nitcher on December 16, 1978, at KU’s Danforth Chapel and together they were happily married for nearly 47 years. Outside of work, the couple was nearly inseparable. Each was the other’s best friend. He survives of the home.
Other survivors include two daughters, Jennifer Elizabeth Romero (Kerry) and Madison Nicole LaDuron (Robert); six grandchildren: Mira, Mason, Austin and Anthony Romero and Veronica and Darla LaDuron; one brother, Rod Imel (Kimberly); three brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law whom Cindy considered siblings: Sandra and Charles Savell, Bob and Jan Nitcher and John and Katy Nitcher; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Both of Cindy’s parents along with her loving in-laws, Keith and Hazel Nitcher, preceded her in death.
Growing up, Cindy and her family spent every summer weekend with friends and relatives at the lake boating, camping and water skiing. Cindy dearly loved her friends and family, enjoyed cooking and hosting family celebrations. At holidays, her family always looked forward to her homemade iced sugar cookies. Cindy was full of fun and laughter and was a bright light in the lives of many people. She will continue living in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
Cindy will be cremated and her remains buried alongside Ron’s at a later date in KU Pioneer Cemetery. No visitation or funeral services are planned. A small family celebration-of-life will be held in the near future.
Cindy’s family is sincerely grateful to all of the angels at Ascend Hospice who assisted in caring for and comforting Cindy during the final days of her life. Her family also thanks the many friends and neighbors who brought flowers and food and visited with or watched over Cindy. Their love and kindness will remain forever in the hearts of Cindy’s family.
The family suggests any memorial contributions to Children’s Mercy Hospital, sent in care of Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home: P.O. Box 1260, Lawrence, KS 66044.
Ron and Family:
I am so sorry for your loss. Even though I have not been in contact with you for many years – I immediately knew the name “Nitcher”. I just had to let you know that I am thinking of you and yours.
Cindy was a giant dose of kindness, orneriness and humor, clever turns of phrase, beauty and extraordinary goodness all rolled up in the tiniest sweet human package. She brought joy to all who were lucky enough to know her.
Sincere condolences to Ron, her precious daughters, and all the family and friends who cherished her.
With much love,
Carol Pilant
Cindy was always a joy to be around and her humor and even just her laugh could light up a room. Sending condolences to the family, I know she will be dearly missed.
Ron,
I was so saddened to read of Cindy’s passing.
We had many crazy, funny talks over the years. I enjoyed and shared her sense of humor!
I’m praying for you and your family.
To. Ron and family. We are saddened to hear of Cindy’s passing. Please have strength at this time. God bless.
Cindy and Ron lived next door to us years ago and we became best friends. Cindy and I shared many adventures that were always filled with fun and lots of laughs! She was one in a million and I will always think of her and smile . Sending hugs and prayers to Ron, Jennifer and Maddie and her grandkids.
Dear Ron, Jennifer, Maddie and families,
I am so deeply sorry for your great loss. Even though I haven’t kept in close touch recently, I always considered Cindy one of my closest and dearest friends. When I did see her it was as if no time had passed between us. She was so funny and I could talk to her about anything. I feel fortunate to have known her. May all of your cherished memories comfort you in the days ahead. Love to you all.
Cheryl
I’m so very sorry for your loss, John. I met Cindy on two occasions and found her to be a delightful person to be friends with. I’m sorry you lost her so soon, but hang on to your memories. Thinking of you.
Cindy and I found each other while working at KU in the 1970s. She was extremely smart and wickedly funny! Cindy was simply delightful. I know Ron and Jennifer will miss her dearly. Love you, Miss Cindy.
Cindy was always a ray of sunshine in the room. I was truly blessed for having known her. She’ll never be forgotten. My deepest condolences.