Dwight Niess

Minot

Dwight L. Niess, 69, of Minot North Dakota, passed away on January 1, 2026, in a Minot hospital, leaving behind a life well-lived, well-laughed, and well-told.

Born on November 15, 1956, to Leo & Barbara Niess. Dwight had a way of moving through the world that made ordinary moments memorable. He was previously married to Diana Kirchofner, and from that union welcomed identical twin sons, Khristopher Leo Niess and Kyle Sebastian Niess–one of his proudest accomplishments and lifelong joys.

Dwight was never one to sit still for long. His happiest hours were spent outdoors: walking a fairway with a golf club in hand, sitting quietly at the lake with a fishing pole, or hunting beneath the wide skies of the North Dakota prairies. These were the places where he felt most himself–unrushed, content, and usually plotting his next great story.

After graduating from Minot High School in 1976 he began working by putting his CDL license to good use, taking him from the oil fields of North Dakota to the long stretches of highway as a long-haul truck driver. Eventually, he found the perfect pace–and perhaps his most unexpected role–as everyone’s favorite pizza delivery driver at Sammy’s Pizza. Whether behind the wheel of a semi or his pickup truck delivering a pizza, Dwight never met a stranger and always arrived with a smile.

Known for his quick wit, Dwight was always ready with a joke–or five–and a story you absolutely had to hear…every single time you saw him, even if you’d heard it before. And chances were, you didn’t mind hearing it again. His humor, warmth, and ability to make people laugh will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Dwight is survived by his mother, Barbara Niess of Minot, ND; his brother David Niess and wife Brenda of Minot, ND; his brother Kevin Niess and wife Star of Quinlan, TX; his son Khristopher Niess and grandson Jameson of Bismarck, ND; and his son Kyle Niess of Bismarck, ND. He is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews who will continue to share his stories and laughter for years to come.

He was preceded in death by his father, Leo Niess; maternal and paternal grandparents and nephew Matthew Niess.

In true Dwight fashion, his final wishes were nothing short of his own. He requested no formal service and instead will enjoy one last tee time–as soon as the courses are in top shape in the 2026 season. Those who wish to honor him are encouraged to think of him whenever they hear a good joke, tell a great story, or find themselves enjoying a perfect day outdoors.

Dwight’s life reminds us that joy can be found in simple things, laughter should never be rationed, and every good story is worth telling–again. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.thomasfamilyfuneralhome.com. Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot are entrusted with arrangements.

Published by The Minot Daily New, January 5, 2026.