Gary Nimmer
Gary has been a part of Council 10243 almost since the Council began a decade ago, but his involvement in numerous activities has made it seem as if he's always been there. He can't remember if it was Richard Rebman or neighbor Leon Janowski or someone else who finally got him involved. He does remember that, as he grew older, he was looking for some means of giving something back. He doesn't consider himself to be much of a joiner of groups and organizations except those that seemed appropriate for business, but the Knights seemed to offer many different activities and involvements and the opportunity to give something to others rather than just promoting oneself. Also, the strong pro-life values of the Knights as a whole and of the local Council were attractive to him and his family.

In his time with the Knights Gary and his family have been involved in various activities ranging from Salvation Army Bell ringing, Brat stands, booyah sales and he's "never missed a Tootsie Roll drive." Among the things he finds especially beneficial about the activities is that families are welcome and he has brought his family to most if not all the activities in which he has been involved. He appreciates seeing some other members of the Council getting their families involved and wishes others would consider doing so.

With his two brothers Gary owns Forest Construction Company in Luxemburg. They used to deal in supplies as well but in recent years they have been 'super-busy' and have had to concentrate on construction. He appreciates being busy because he can remember the 'bleak years' when the economy as not favorable to new construction. Gary has been in the business for 23 years now and has served as president of the State Construction Board. Despite how busy the business can be, he has found some time to relax and especially enjoys fly-fishing. He recently returned from a fly fishing trip to Florida and look forward to returning soon to try out the other coast of the State. He enjoys the chance to travel with his family and hopes to give his children exposure to some enjoyable leisure activities. Gary also occasionally golfs and hunts birds. He used to do more hunting but has been falling away for a variety of reasons.

Gary and his wife, Roxanne, have been married for nearly thirty years now and have five children: Reena, Rhett, Reuben, Reid and Raine. All are local except Reena who has been living in Georgia but she will be moving back to the area soon. A native of Two Rivers, Gary and his family are members of St. Bernard Parish. We appreciate the emphasis he helps the Council place on family involvement.

March 2000