Douglas Robert Niska

Visitation will be on Friday, May 9, 2025, from 5:00 – 7:00 pm at Weerts Funeral Home; Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 10, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at Weerts Funeral Home.

He was born on September 11, 1957, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to Robert and Eleanor Niska. Doug spent his early childhood in Minneapolis, Minnesota, before moving with his family to Moline, Illinois, in 1965. He graduated from Moline High School and went on to earn a triple major in Accountancy, Economics, and Business Administration from St. Ambrose University. In 1981, he became a Certified Public Accountant and maintained his certification throughout his life.

Doug began his career at Deere & Company as an intern in the Tax Department and held numerous roles over nearly 30 years. He played a key role in developing the John Deere Health division and served as Director of Finance, Controller, and Vice President of Internal Audit & Compliance. In 2006, Doug began a second career with UnitedHealth Group in Minnetonka, Minnesota, where he served as Vice President of Privacy in the Law Department until his retirement in March 2023.

In 1988, Doug married the love of his life, Judy Kistner, whom he had first met at her 16th birthday party. In 1996, they welcomed their son, David, completing their family and bringing them immeasurable joy.

Doug lived a life full of interests and adventures. He earned his private pilot license in 1983 and enjoyed flying for 25 years. He had a passion for woodworking and carpentry, including building the family’s longtime home. He loved traveling with his family, visiting nearly every U.S. state as well as destinations in Europe, Israel, Hawaii, the South Pacific, and the Caribbean. He was also a beekeeper and an avid cyclist who organized 100-mile rides with church friends.

A man of deep faith in Jesus Christ, Doug was baptized at age 38 and served in many areas of church ministry and leadership. He and Judy taught Sunday School together, he served as an AWANA leader for David’s group, and he was a dedicated member of Men’s Bible Study.

Doug is survived by his beloved wife Judy, his son David, his mother Eleanor, brothers Dennis and Don, and several brothers-in-law.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Niska.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and former colleagues.