Kim Diane

(Koltyn) Nygaard

In Loving Memory of Kim Diane (Koltyn) Nygaard

June 8, 1958 - October 23, 2026

Kim Diane (Koltyn) Nygaard passed away on October 23rd, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of boundless love, cherished memories, and a community of family and friends who held her dearly in their hearts.

Kim was born and raised in Racine, Wisconsin, where she attended J.I. Case High School and made many cherished memories with her parents and siblings. She carried her Wisconsin pride with her, always cheering on the Green Bay Packers. She went on to earn her Bachelors in Physical Education/Coaching from Carroll College.

Shortly after college, Kim moved to California to live by the ocean. It was there, at the Sports Connection gym, that she met Bryce, the love of her life. Together, they built a beautiful life in the South Bay, where they raised their family and shared a love for the outdoors and ocean. Their love for the water grew into a shared passion for outrigger canoe paddling, creating countless memories along the way. Kim and Bryce married in August of 1986 and spent 40 wonderful years building a life together.

Her passion for outrigger canoeing led to opportunities within dragon boat racing. She won three Molokai to Oahu outrigger paddle races which is a world-famous race in Hawaii. It is a 41 mile race that starts at Hale O Lono Harbor on Molokai and finishes at Duke Kahnamoku Beach on Oahu. This race consisted of 9 total women while 6 were in the boat at a time. An escort boat with the other 3 women rode alongside them, changing members throughout the race in the middle of the ocean. Dragon boat racing consisted of a longer boat that sat 20 women. At the time, it was a big sport internationally and Kim made the 1992 United States Women’s team (The San Diego Dragon Boat Team). Dragon boats were an exhibition to the Olympics which meant they didn’t compete in Barcelona. She competed in Hong Kong and Singapore. Her team captured a silver medal in their competitive international debut.

While training for the 1992 Olympics, she was also training for the LA marathon and a 10-mile ocean swim. She was first place in the Women’s division for the 10-mile ocean swim finishing in 4 hours and 24 minutes.

Kim dedicated 38 years of her life to teaching physical education, spending the majority of her career at Peninsula Heritage School. She even became a published author of “Survivor…. PE Style”, combining her love for the hit series Survivor with her passion for making physical activity fun and engaging for children. Through her work, she shared her vibrant energy, adventurous spirit, and passion for an active life with others. Selfless, caring, and deeply compassionate, Kim possessed a rare gift for making everyone around her feel uniquely seen, special, and loved.

Kim found profound joy in life’s simple moments and the traditions that bind a family together. She loved the magic of the holidays, always making celebrations a little brighter as well as traveling, baking, and gathering with the people she treasured most. Whether planning a grand adventure or simply sharing a quiet conversation, time spent with her loved ones meant everything to her.

Following her retirement Kim and Bryce moved to Montrose Colorado where Kim embraced a joyful new chapter filled with travel, exploration, and precious time with family and friends. One of her greatest and most treasured joys was becoming a grandma to her beloved granddaughter, Brynley. Watching Brynley grow brought immeasurable happiness to her life, and every moment they shared was a true gift.

Kim is survived by her loving husband, Bryce; her children, Kjell and Nyles; her son-in-law, Tyler; her daughter-in-law, Sydney; her mother-in-law, Esther; and her cherished granddaughter, Brynley. She is also survived by two of her sisters, Kerri and Kendra, along with many nieces, nephews, many more family members and dear friends who held a special place in her heart.

Though her family wishes they had more time with her, they will forever hold close the laughter, traditions, and unconditional love she gave so freely. Her adventurous spirit and radiant kindness will live on in our hearts always!