Frank Niemann knew he wanted to do something to recognize his younger brother, John, on his stellar career at the University of Nebraska Foundation.
Paying it forward
Frank Niemann’s tree and bench memorial to his younger brother, John, was all about marking the success of John’s “pay it forward work” at the University of Nebraska Foundation.
“John’s biggest objective in raising money was to develop new facilities and resources at UNMC, so that future students could come and receive a world-class education and develop the skills they will need to be successful in their work life. It was his way of paying it forward.
“The accomplishments we celebrate today will be paid forward in the future,” said Frank at a dedication event in the Ruth and Bill Scott Student Plaza on May 18. “There will be even greater achievements in the years ahead. As time goes on, so too will the achievements become more plentiful and significant as people’s lives are improved or saved.”
Frank chose a tree as the centerpiece, because it exemplifies how things change over time.
“A tree goes through a cycle of life — dropping its leaves, becoming dormant, and then blooming in spring to provide the shade and oxygen we need to fill our lives.”
The bench is a symbol of a rest point for all the students, faculty and staff who pass by, Frank said.
“It provides a place for people to pause and reflect on the work of those who preceded them and who made it possible for them to obtain the education and skills to be successful in their careers.”
It wasn’t going to be a tribute to John’s past accomplishments, but rather something that would “pay it forward” for future generations — just like John had done throughout his 30-year career at the foundation by raising millions of dollars for new buildings at UNMC.
In John’s honor, Frank decided to put a tree and bench in the Ruth and Bill Scott Student Plaza — a plaza that John helped create through his amazing fundraising.
“John’s a likeable guy. He’s always been a people person,” Frank said. “He never forgets a face or a name. Once he meets someone, he has their DNA locked up in his mind. He remembers everything about them. It is the key to his success.”
Frank, who is nearly four years older than John, turned 81 on May 27. He and his wife, Grace, live in Eatontown, N.J. — three miles from the Atlantic Ocean, which is more than 1,200 miles from Omaha.
“We love getting together with John’s family,” Frank said. “It’s just not easy when you’re so far apart.”
Like most brothers, the Niemanns like to keep it fun. Frank calls John, “Trim,” a family nickname that comes from John’s middle name of Antrim (their mother’s maiden name). John’s daughter calls Frank, “Charley Horse” — his full name is Charles Franklin Niemann III.
“When John was hired to start the foundation’s Omaha office in 1987, he was the only person in the office,” Frank said. “I used to give him a hard time by calling him, ‘the CEO who takes the trash out at night.'”
As children, the Niemanns grew up in Parkersburg, W.Va. Frank said John was “a loving and protective brother.” Once Frank got jumped by some elementary school boys, and John jumped into the brawl to chase the boys off.
In 1954, the Niemann family moved to Maplewood, N.J., where both brothers graduated from Columbia High School before going to college.
“We were different,” Frank said. “I was an Eagle Scout. John had no interest in being a scout.”
See a photo album from the event.
Electricity and electronics were Frank’s niche. He taught both subjects in technical schools, universities and private industry. He also wrote a book, which was published in three languages and sold for 30 years.
From afar, Frank was super impressed with what his younger brother accomplished at the foundation.
“John has a way of looking at things optimistically,” Frank said. “He came in and did his thing. The foundation is better prepared to carry on its mission because of his leadership and training.”
Well said, big brother.
Congratulations, John! This is an honor you richly deserve. Thank you for all you have done for UNMC and Nebraska.
John, you were the first person I met 28 years ago when I interviewed at UNMC. Remember that day well. Your excitement about the future was absolutely contagious. It was a bit reason why I came. Years later I had the honor to mentor Doug when he was a technologist in our lab. The apple doesn't fall far from the tree and knew like his Dad he would go far and he has being one of the best young physicians we have at this medical center. You have done so much for so many but always unselfishly as you were always singularly devoted to the mission. Nebraska was yours John and you made it great by defining what we really are. We thank you for that and for all you have done for so many.
Well deserved. John was—and still is—a major contributor to UNMC’s success.
A wonderful tribute to a most wonderful man. John never missed an opportunity to assist the McGoogan Library or brighten our days with his visits. His efforts in support of the library continue to benefit students, faculty, and library staff and will do so far into the future.
John's impact can be felt all over our campus. I will always remember the many kindnesses he has shown me throughout the years. This is a wonderful tribute to an impactful champion of our campus and a true gentleman.
What a wonderful, loving tribute and so well-deserved!
I couldn't agree more! John's career has made a real difference to us in the department of ob/gyn and throughout UNMC I'm sure. I'm proud to know him!
What a nice tribute to John. What a legacy! Great story T.O. and lovely photos of the Niemann family.
John is an incredible person. He was blessed with the ability to connect with anyone he may meet. He looks beyond an individual's position or status in life and sees the true person for who they are. What you see is what you get. He is just as wonderful of a person when he makes photo copies as he is when attending a ribbon cutting ceremony. He is loyal, caring, humble, inviting, friendly, down to earth and authentic. Thank you for all you have done for Nebraska, John. The world is a better place because you are in it. God bless you for all of the blessings you have given.
You made our philanthropy FUN!! Thanks for the memories. Ruth
John, your dedication to UNMC is remarkable. I've enjoyed watching you make wonderful connections and gather support for this wonderful University. Thanks for all you have done for Nebraska! Pat