Obituary
John Robert Nickles Sr. “Nick”
John Robert Nickles Sr. “Nick”, 83, passed peacefully away at the Tomah VA on Sunday, September 20, 2020. John was born July 18, 1937 in Potosi, WI to Fred and Thelma (Maahs) Nickles. John later moved to Onalaska, WI where he graduated from Onalaska High School in 1956.
John served in the Army out of high school where he was in the Military Police, he earned his parachute badge as a paratrooper and received the Good Conduct Medal. After his service he worked construction. While working there he met and married Patricia Brendum on October 1, 1960 at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in La Crosse, WI.
John was known by many names, Nick, Bob and Nibby to name a few, he was a jack of all trades, he was a salesman for Sears, worked for Train Company, was a real estate agent for Wheeler Realty. In the late 70’s he became an entrepreneur and owned several successful businesses, he owned and operated Riverside Bar on French Island, Nickles Realty and Hillside Cabinets and Carpet in Onalaska. He expanded to Nickles Flooring and Furniture in Galesville, WI in 1995.
During their 59 years of marriage they raised 5 children in Onalaska, Lori (John) Ungrodt, John Nickles Jr, Joe (Kris) Nickles, Lisa (RIck) Coryell, Lesley (Lee) Thompson. They have 13 grandchildren, and 3 great grandchildren.
John is survived by his loving wife Pat, and their children, 3 sisters and 2 brothers. He is preceded in death by his parents, step mother Helen, brother Gary, and parent’s in law Woody and Polly.
The visitation will be at Coulee Region Cremation Group, 133 Mason St, Onalaska, WI on Sunday, October 4th from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Private interment. To view John’s Tribute Video, please follow this link: https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/J7L37ZSHWBPJC922
My sympathy to Nicks beloved wife Pat and his dear family. We have been friends for many years, shared many good times together. He was a hard worker and had lots of good ideas, a wonderful family man. I know his family will miss him dearly as we will. Blessed be the name and memory of John “Nick” Nickles
It is with sadness that I offer my condolences to Pat and the family. I’ve know Nick since we were neighbors and schoolmates growing up on 4th Ave S in Onalaska. He graduated 4 years ahead of me and our contacts were minimal through the years, however these last few years it has been nice to chat when meeting at community dinners. Rest in Peace Nick.??
I’m sorry to hear of Nick’s passing. I have good memories during my childhood of of Nick and Pat and their kids. John jr was my friend. Watching Nick work around his house and barn, his stories at the supper table, scouting events like at Fort McCoy etc.. He was a good family man. My prayers are with the family..
Chris, I’m sorry to hear about the passing of your Grandpa. He seemed like a great person. Anyone with the nickname Nibby must have been quite a character. You and your family our in our thoughts and prayers.. God Bless. Dan
So sorry to hear of Nick’s passing, he was such a great fellow, cherish the memories. Hugs to Pat & family.
We are sorry for the loss in your family, cherish all your memories and enjoy each other. Gary and Lynda
Arttus
I bought a lot carpet from nick when he had store above old jewel tea building Nick was a dealer. Good price would be abstained I live in The Villages Florida. Rest in pease nick
Pat and family, we were very sorry to hear about Nicks death. He was a very hard worker and always fun to visit with. We bought carpet from him several times. We also enjoyed our class get togethers with you and Nick. Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
Dear Pat, I am so sorry to hear of John’s passing. Please accept our sincere condolences.
Ken and I wish to express our sincere sympathies to Pat and John’s family. We’ve known you folks since we were neighbors on the hill on 4th St. So sorry .
” The greatest legacy one can leave behind is of character and faith.”
That is Nick! A man of character, a man of kindness, a man who helps others, a man with a smile, sense of humor and a helping hand. Our family is BLESSED to have shared times with Nick.
God Bless Nick and all of you, his loving family. We love you all.
Michelle, Gus, Brittany, Gina, Louie, Madeline, Gia and Aurora
One of the storms we all must face in our lives is the passing of someone dear to us. May all of your memories give you peace and comfort. Our thoughts are with you and your family.
We will miss Nick so much. Been friends for years; bowled together, played cards, went out to eat every month for years. He and Pat have been an important part of our lives. Love you, Pat.