Noriaki Nihira, 71, of Festus died Sept. 21, 2025. Mr. Nihira retired from Delta Airlines. He also was a professional chef who loved to cook and eat. He loved traveling and spent many days walking to stay active. He will be remembered for being a hardworking, kind-hearted man who would help his family in any way he could. Born Jan. 14, 1954, in Tokyo, Japan, he was the son of the late Sue and Sakuzo Nihira.
He is survived by three children: Nicholas (Amanda) Nihira of Bloomsdale, Maggie (Mo) Nihira of Missouri and Caleb (Jody) Nihira of Norfolk, Neb.; close friend and ex-wife: Deanna Nihira of Festus; a brother: Masaaki Nihira of Japan; and four grandchildren.
A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of Vinyard Funeral Home.