Obituary: Harald “Nick” Nicholas Pabst

June 6, 1941 – August 27, 2025

Harald Nicholas Pabst, the great-grandson of Captain Frederick Pabst, the founder of Pabst Brewing Company, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on August 27, 2025, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. A devoted husband, brother, uncle, and friend, Nick lived a life full of laughter, adventure, and creative pursuits.
The son of Harald “Shorty” Pabst and Patricia Johnston Pabst, he was born on June 6, 1941, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Joyce Pabst, and three siblings: Kenneth, Tamzin, and I.V. Pabst. He was predeceased by his brother, John Pabst.
Growing up on a working cattle ranch in Old Snowmass, Colorado, Nick possessed a deep and abiding love of nature, hard work, and stories told by firelight under a sky brimming with stars. He was a brilliant writer and raconteur. And his quick wit and wry sense of humor will be dearly missed by all who crossed his path.
As a young man, Nick attended The Fountain Valley School in Colorado Springs, Colorado and The University of Iowa Writers’ Workshop in Iowa City, Iowa.
He began his career in journalism working for a number of Colorado newspapers and as Press Officer for the Colorado Republican Party. Subsequently, he founded The Aspen Illustrated News, served as Managing Editor of The Aspen Times, wrote for The Grand Junction Daily Sentinel, and had stories published in The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
Nick was appointed President of Pabst Farms, Inc. in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, and started the monthly business publication Corporate Report Wisconsin. After leaving Corporate Report, he served as Editor of Farm and Ranch Living Magazine, published by Reiman Publications.
Whether penning his own recollections, flying his single-engine Citabria stunt plane, or traveling extensively around the world with Joyce, Nick could always be counted on to remember every detail and treasure every moment.
He was an epic storyteller, an avid reader, and a fantastic conversationalist who loved pondering the mysteries of life.
His family sends special thanks to Nick’s longtime friend, Sue Masland, for her steadfast support and valued companionship.
A private service was held.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Nick’s name to The Pabst Mansion, 2000 W. Wisconsin Ave., Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53233.