William "Bill" Nikoley Obituary

WILLIAM “BILL” FREDERICK NIKOLEY, age 90, of Elysian, died on Monday, June 23, 2025 at the Owatonna Hospital.

Born on April 24, 1935, in Northern Minnesota. As an infant, Bill was adopted by Fred and Gertrude (Brossard) Nikoley. He received his education in Elysian and graduated with the class of 1953. On May 16, 1959, Bill was united in marriage to Mary Jo Pemble at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Marysburg. Together they made their home in Elysian while raising five children. They shared 59 years of marriage before Mary Jo passed away on May 1, 2019. Throughout his life, Bill worked for the State Highway Department, Lundin’s and at the Fish Hatchery in Waterville. He also owned and operated Miller’s Bar in Elysian. Bill and Mary Jo enjoyed buying and selling antiques. He was a member of the Decoy Collectors Association and was an avid hunter and fisherman.

Bill is survived by his children: Marlene (Garett) Schmahl of Elysian, Dean (Lori) Nikoley of Madison Lake, Fred Nikoley of Elysian, Curt (Kim) Nikoley of Waseca, and Doug (Khanittha) Nikoley of Cleveland; seven grandchildren: Braidon (Taylor) Schmahl, Lynsey Lawrenson, Josh Nikoley, Jesse Nikoley, Jacob Nikoley (Sammy Hammer), Keaton Nikoley (Adi Stapleton), Camren (Jennifer) Nikoley; step granddaughter, Sabannga Jonasson; great grandchildren: Weston, Ellery, Colson and Huxley Schmahl, Thomas and Leon Nikoley, Brexton, Fletcher, Hawkin and Everett Nikoley and baby boy due in August; sisters-in-law: Victoria Johnson and Karen (Tom) Gohla, Margie Winker, Ardie Pemble, and Ginger Pemble; brothers-in-law: Mark Pemble and Jim (Sandy) Pemble; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Preceded in death by his parents and wife.

Private Family graveside service will be held at Cedar Hill Cemetery in Elysian.