Nan Nesbit, age 77, of Yankton, South Dakota, passed away on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at the South Dakota Human Services Center in Yankton. A Graveside Service will be held at St. Thomas More Catholic Cemetery on Thursday, August 20, 2026 at 10:00 am in Brookings, South Dakota.

Nan was born on May 12, 1949, in Omaha, Nebraska, to Stuart and Zelda (Campbell) Nesbit. She grew up in La Crosse, Wisconsin, alongside her brother, Robert “Bob” Nesbit.

Following high school, Nan set out on a life of travel and adventure, living in various places throughout the United States. Along the way, she spent time working at a Renaissance fair in Minnesota. It was there that Nan rescued a mule who would become her beloved companion, Gerte Marie Mule. Gerte held a special place in Nan’s life and remained a treasured part of her story for many years.

Nan’s travels eventually brought her to Brookings, South Dakota, where she began working at South Dakota State University. She served as a secretary in the Department of Veterinary Science and remained at SDSU until her retirement. During her years in Brookings, Nan formed many friendships and made the community her home.

Nan will be remembered for her independent spirit, the many experiences she collected throughout her life, and the friends she made along the way. Her life took her to many different places, but she maintained meaningful connections with those who knew and cared for her.

Nan is survived by many cousins and friends who will remember her fondly.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Stuart and Zelda Nesbit; her brother, Robert “Bob” Nesbit; and her beloved mule, Gerte Marie Mule.