Parade Marshalls: Mike and Cheri Nehl
The Nehls moved to Belle Fourche after Mike’s graduation from dental school in 1984, and they have called it home ever since. “We wouldn’t be anywhere else, we’ve lived here longer than anywhere,” they say.
All of their children graduated from Belle Fourche High School, and several of their children and grandchildren still live nearby. Involved parents and grandparents, the Nehls continue to attend countless baseball games, softball games, plays, 4-H events, and other school activities. Cheri was in charge of the Bronc Booster Club for a time. The couple owned an empty lot near their office which was used at no charge by the carnival for many years during the Black Hills Roundup.
Both Mike and Cheri grew up in Lemmon, South Dakota and still have a passion for horses and riding. Their adventures have taken them to reined cow horse competitions, elk hunting, and pack trips in the mountains. “[Horses] have shown us a lot of country we wouldn’t see without them. It’s a great hobby we share,” says Mike.
Going on 40 years in business, Nehl Dentistry in Belle Fourche is very much a family affair. Mike’s son, Matt, joined him in the practice in 2007 and the duo work side by side to provide their services to the community.
The Black Hills Roundup has become a sort of reunion for the Nehl family each year during the Fourth of July. “We think that’s the best holiday and we take in lot of activities over the Fourth. The parade comes right down by our place,” they say. The firework show and rodeo performances are highlights for the family. “They’ve got a great committee and they work hard and they do an outstanding job,” the Nehls say.
The couple is “shocked” at their being selected as Parade Marshalls for 2023. “It’s quite an honor and very humbling. We’re very grateful about that.”
The 2023 Fourth of July Parade begins at 10:30 a.m., running its normal route.
Written by: Kaycee Cortner