Motorcyclist killed in crash near Springville identified

SPRINGVILLE - The Linn County Sheriff's Office has identified the motorcyclist killed over the weekend in a crash near Springville.

The sheriff's office said Wesley D. Nissen, 36, of Monticello, was southbound on Highway 151 around 2:28 p.m. Saturday when he collided with a minivan driven by James Vratney, 56, of Anamosa. Vratney was northbound on Alderman Road, crossing Highway 151.

Authorities said Nissen was not wearing a helmet at the time of the collision. Vratney was wearing his seat belt and was uninjured, the sheriff's office said.

Col. John Stuelke said Monday the crash remains under investigation.

According to his obituary, Nissen was 'always busy doing something.”

'He loved riding his Harley and was a member of the Midwest Motorcycle Mafia,” the obituary said. 'He was an avid Chicago Bears fan and liked going to auctions.”

Nissen was married and had one son.

Visitation is from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday at the Carson Celebration of Life Center, 318 W. Pleasant St., Maquoketa, with a prayer service scheduled for 5:30 p.m.

l Comments: (319) 398-8238; lee.hermiston@thegazette.com