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Nolen John Gieschen, 80, of Smithton, died peacefully on Tuesday morning, July 24, 2007, at his home, surrounded by family and friends. He was born Jan. 3, 1927, in Smithton, to John E. and Hattie Mahnken Gieschen. On June 5, 1948, he married Carolyn Jean Monsees, of Smithton, who survives him.Mr. Gieschen was an active, lifelong member of Lake Creek United Methodist Church and Lake Creek Camp Meeting, which his ancestors helped found in the mid-1840's. He attended Ringen School in rural Smithton, and helped run his family’s farm as a young man. Following marriage, he supported his family working in residential as well as commercial construction. Recognizing 50 years of continuous membership, Nolen was awarded Life Membership in the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America in 2006. In retirement, he loved tending his goats, horses, and other animals at the family farm.Nolen was an avid gardener, and loved raising dahlias and chrysanthemums. He also loved gooseberry pie, fresh-picked fried mushrooms, a competitive game of horseshoes, ice-cold soda from the snack bar at Camp Meeting, and watching the wildflowers bloom on theprairie. He always had an encouraging word for his children, never tired of listening to his girls sing, and loved playing with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Nolen was totally devoted to his bride of 59 years, and the image of his loving smile will be carried in her heart forever.He is survived by his wife, Carolyn, of the home; daughters, Yvonne Pritchett and Stephenia Griffin (Kenneth), of Kansas City, Jacqulyn Ryan (Rex), of Wellington; a son, Jerome Gieschen, of Sedalia; daughter, Rachael Gieschen, of Smithton; a daughter-in-law, Judy Gieschen, of Smithton; grandchildren, Yvette Pritchett, Adrienne Adams, Ashley Barnes, Beau Embree, Jake and Luke Gieschen, Krystol Griffin, and Rex B. Ryan; two great grandchildren, Ethan and Zoe Pritchett; a sister, Ona Gieschen, of Kansas City; and a host of extended family and friends.He was predeceased by his parents; a brother, William Harman Gieschen; and sisters, Ruth Ella Bultemeier and Muriel Strathman.As Nolen wished to be cremated, a memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at Lake Creek United Methodist Church, with Pastor Jorge Arvelo officiating. The family suggests memorial contributions to Lake Creek United Methodist Church.The family thanks Bothwell Regional Health Center Hospice for their tireless efforts in caring for Nolen over the past two years. Arrangements are under the direction of Heckart Funeral Home.