John Nightengale III

John Justin "Johnny" Nightengale III January 16, 1955 – April 9, 2025

John Justin “Johnny” Nightengale III, age 70, longtime resident of Clinton, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully at his home on April 9, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on January 16, 1955, in Minot, North Dakota, he was the son of John J. and Carol A. (Robbins) Nightengale.

Johnny spent his early childhood in various parts of the western United States, but his formative years were primarily spent in Cleo Springs, Oklahoma. He was a proud graduate of Aline-Cleo High School. A dedicated and industrious man, Johnny devoted most of his life to the oil and gas industry. He began his career as a heavy equipment operator and went on to become a respected construction foreman. From 1985 to 2005, he owned and operated a successful dirt construction company, completing projects across Oklahoma, Texas, Kansas, Pennsylvania, Nebraska, Colorado, and Illinois.

Mr. Nightengale possessed a deep appreciation for the outdoors and had a wide array of interests. He was an avid motorcyclist and a proud member of the Harley Owners Group (H.O.G.), owning four Harley-Davidson motorcycles. He enjoyed music—particularly playing guitar and attending live performances—and found joy in collecting coins, rocks, and artifacts. He cherished time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren, and had a special bond with the family’s pets. Known for his love of storytelling and spirited conversations, Johnny brought laughter, wisdom, and warmth wherever he went.

Those who knew Johnny remember him as a man of exceptional character—gentle, generous, honest, and kind. He had a remarkable sense of humor and an infectious spirit. His family often referred to him as “legendary,” a fitting tribute to a man whose presence left an indelible mark on the lives of all who knew him. He had an unwavering work ethic, a passion for his craft, and a unique way of expressing himself—often through song lyrics and lively anecdotes. His ability to connect with others was profound; to spend even a short time in his company was to gain a lifelong friend.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Carol Nightengale; his sister, Sandra Nightengale; and brothers, Kelly and Wayne Nightengale.

Johnny was also extraordinarily dedicated to the care and protection of his whole family. Jona and Justin were the apples of his eye. He was a fun-loving father that surrounded his children and grand children with a paramount love, loads of laughter and music. The family experiences created a legacy of love that will survive onward.

Johnny is survived by his daughter, Jona Knoble and her husband Derek of Littleton, Colorado; his son, Justin Nightengale and his wife Rachel of Norfolk, Virginia; his sister, Laurel “Lolly” Rich of Cleo Springs, Oklahoma; and his brother, Leslie Nightengale of Aline, Oklahoma. He is also survived by three beloved grandchildren: Cuyler, Callan, and Carsen, along with numerous nieces and nephews whom he adored.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 19, 2025, in the Hyman Chapel at Lee Hometown Funeral Home, located at 1217 West Gary Boulevard, Clinton, Oklahoma. Guests who ride motorcycles are encouraged to honor Johnny by arriving on their Harley-Davidsons.

The family will receive friends during visitation at the funeral home on Friday, April 18, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Johnny’s name to the National Park Foundation, in recognition of his deep love for nature and his many treasured rides through the forests and mountains of America’s national parks.