In Ruston, Louisiana, Dave Nitz, known as the “Voice of the Bulldogs,” positively influenced Louisiana Tech athletics for fifty years, with support from his wife, Marlene.
Dave passed away on June 24, 2025, at the age of 82, leaving behind Marlene, their three children, and a community forever changed by his passion for storytelling and sports.
Born in 1942 in Milton, West Virginia, Dave Nitz was a small-town boy with big dreams.
His love for the microphone sparked early, leading him to a career that spanned nearly six decades.
Through it all, Marlene was by his side, his partner in every sense.
While Dave’s voice filled the airwaves, Marlene worked diligently at Willis-Knighton South, contributing to their family and community in her own meaningful way.
Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and a shared commitment to their family and the town of Ruston.
Marlene’s dedicated presence allowed Dave to pour his heart into his craft.
Whether he was calling a nail-biting football game or a thrilling baseball match, Dave knew he could count on Marlene’s support at home.
Their relationship was a quiet but powerful force, grounding Dave as he became a beloved figure in Louisiana sports.
Dave with his three children, Jamie, Jeff, and Jay
Dave and Marlene raised three children—Jamie, Jeff, and Jay—who each carved their own paths while carrying the values their parents instilled.
Jamie Nitz Oglesby, a 1982 graduate of Ruston High School, followed her passion for education.
She studied accounting at Louisiana Tech University and later earned a degree in early childhood education from Texas A&M University–Commerce in 2000.
Since 2019, Jamie has been shaping young minds as a teacher at Commerce Elementary School, after years of service at Cooper ISD.
Her brother, Jay Nitz, also a Ruston High alum, has been the director of finance and accounting at Specialty Rehab Hospital of Coushatta since 2007, bringing stability and expertise to his role.
Jeff Nitz, another Louisiana Tech graduate, has been a truck driver with KLLM Transport Services since 2015, representing the same work ethic that defined his parents.
The Nitz family’s close-knit bond was evident in the way Dave spoke of them.
Despite his demanding career, he always made time for Marlene and their children, creating memories that will live on in their hearts.
Dave’s Journey To Louisiana Tech Began Long Before He Arrived In Ruston In 1974
Dave’s broadcasting career kicked off in the early 1960s, calling minor league baseball games for the Baltimore Orioles’ farm system in Bluefield, West Virginia.
From there, he honed his craft at Georgia Southern (1967–1970), William & Mary (1970–1973), and Arkansas Tech (1973–1974).
By the time he joined Louisiana Tech, Dave was already a seasoned storyteller, ready to become the voice of a university and its passionate fan base.
As the “Voice of the Bulldogs,” Dave called over 4,500 games across football, basketball, and baseball.
His calls weren’t just play-by-play; they were moments etched into the memories of fans.
From Sean Cangelosi’s unforgettable touchdown grab against Alabama to the Lady Techsters’ back-to-back national championship games in 1981 and 1982, Dave’s voice was the soundtrack to Louisiana Tech’s greatest triumphs.
His trademark phrase, “You Gotta Love It!” became a rallying cry for Bulldog fans everywhere.
Dave served as director of promotions and coordinator of the Louisiana Tech Radio Network, working alongside Keith Prince in the sports information office for over a decade.
His dedication earned him countless accolades, including induction into the Louisiana Tech Athletics Hall of Fame in 2011 and the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame in 2019.
He was named Louisiana Sportscaster of the Year in 2009 and won first place in the Louisiana Sports Writers Association’s college broadcaster play-by-play contest three times in his final five years.
When News Of Dave’s Passing Spread In 2025, Tributes Poured In From Fans, Colleagues, And Friends
Jim Henderson, a Ruston resident, captured the sentiment of many:
“For 50 years, Dave saw it all—the great plays, the wins, the championships, the dynasties. His iconic voice allowed Tech fans to experience the game no matter their distance from Ruston. The Voice of the Bulldogs has left an indelible mark on this university”
Via latechsports
Louisiana Tech’s Director of Athletics, Ryan Ivey, added,
“Dave was the conduit of Louisiana Tech athletics to our passionate fan base. He created sensational storytelling narratives for some of the greatest moments in our history. We are forever grateful for his service, energy, and passion.”
Via latechsports
Longtime friend Gary McKenney shared a personal memory:
Broadcaster Carlos Zimmermann recalled on Dave’s influence:
“From the stories I’ve heard from colleagues to the brief time I got to spend with him at the CUSA Baseball Tournament last year, one thing is crystal clear. Dave was the epitome of hard work and passion. I learned a lot from our conversations, not just about broadcasting but about life.”
Via Facebook
Even the Sioux City Explorers, where Dave once lent his voice, mourned his loss:
Our hearts are heavy with the news of the passing of former @SiouxCityXs voice Dave Nitz. He was special & influenced so many broadcasters in @AA_Baseball. He had a passion for life & the game. He was one of the kindest people you would ever meet. Prayers for his family. pic.twitter.com/iqhcIThUpK
— Sioux City Explorers (@SiouxCityXs) June 24, 2025
As the community grieves, Marlene remains a pillar of strength. Her quiet dedication to Dave and their family is evidence of the love they shared.
While Dave’s voice may no longer fill the airwaves, his legacy lives on through Marlene, their children, and the countless fans who grew up listening to his calls.
Dave Nitz was more than a broadcaster—he was a husband, father, and friend who brought people together through the power of his voice.
With Marlene by his side, he built a life that will be remembered for generations.
As Bulldog fans say one last “You Gotta Love It!” in his honor, they also celebrate the woman who loved and supported him through it all: Marlene Nitz.
