Gale Lee Nightingale, 82, of Corning, Kansas, passed away peacefully on August 14, 2025, at Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka, Kansas, with his family by his side.

Gale was born on September 1, 1942, in Corning, Kansas, to Virgil and Wanda (Steele) Nightingale. He was a lifelong resident of the Corning community and graduated from Corning High School.

Gale had a long and dedicated career with the Nemaha County Road and Bridge Department, where he worked for 39 years. Throughout his career, he took on many roles, from operating a road grader, to building bridges, repairing machinery, and drinking plenty of black coffee along the way.

Gale enjoyed tinkering with vehicles, even if he occasionally ended up with a few extra bolts when he was finished. In his younger years, he helped his brother, Mack, shear sheep, and he may have raced a car or two. Gale also loved a good game of pitch, whether it was at the Corning Bar, the Goff Café, or with his family.

A devoted K-State sports fan, Gale especially loved spending time at the Corning Ballfield watching his grandsons and their friends play ball. He also spent many hours at the Casey farm, where he mended fences, helped with the cattle, and was able to fix just about anything that needed repairs.
In his free time, Gale enjoyed watching wrestling, car races, and his favorite western television shows. Above all, he always prioritized his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He had an unparalleled love for children. Although Gale never sought to be the center of attention, he deserves recognition for his many years of fatherly love and devotion to his family and friends. Gale was a man of kindness, generosity, and integrity, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.

Gale was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Shirleen; and his three brothers, Eldon, Mack, and Terry.

Gale is survived by his three daughters, Tammy, Kathy, and Lori; his two sons, Jerell and Gale; his two sisters-in-law, Carolyn and Linda; his six grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and his many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Graveside services will be held on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at the Corning Cemetery. Gale will lie in state at the Popkess Memorial Chapel in Seneca, Kansas on Friday, August 22, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Memorial contributions are suggested to a charity yet to be designated by the family and sent in care of Popkess Memorial Chapel, 814 Castle, Seneca, Kansas 66538.

Condolences may be shared online at www.popkessmortuaries.com.