James Nichols Obituary

James Frederick "Fred" Nichols, lovingly known as Freddie, Dad, and Grandpa, passed away peacefully on September 6, 2025, at his home in La Vernia, Texas. He was 83 years old.

Fred was born on June 27, 1942, in Sioux City, Iowa, to John and Marjorie "Sarge" Nichols. One of four boys, he grew up alongside his brothers Jack, Gerald "Jerry," and Phillip. He was especially close to his Aunt Pert and Uncle Gail, who played a guiding role in his upbringing and shaped much of the man he became. He graduated from Lawton High School in 1960.

Fred lived a life of hard work and adventure. His career spanned farming, truck driving, and computer programming. In 1995, he co-founded Advanced Home Health Services with his daughter Faith and friend Jimmy.

He was a devoted father to his three children, Faith, Gail, and Hope, a proud grandfather to 11 grandchildren, and a loving great-grandfather to 12.

In 2001, Fred married Virginia "Gina" Nichols. Together, they shared 24 happy years filled with love and adventure. Through their marriage, he also became a proud stepfather to her sons, Rudy, Romeo, and Randy.

Fred's passions reflected his adventurous spirit. He loved playing his guitar and flying his plane, "Mikey." He enjoyed traveling in his RV, cycling, motorcycling, and keeping up with the latest Apple technology. He remained active throughout his life-excelling as a fastpitch softball pitcher, a regional racquetball champion, and, at age 59, a Hawaiian Marathon runner. He was also a celebrated tractor puller, earning multiple national titles and several sportsmanship awards, which he always said meant more than the championship trophies. In 2018, he was inducted into the Iowa Tractor Pulling Association Hall of Fame.

Fred will forever be remembered as the heartbeat of his family-a one-of-a-kind soul whose presence touched everyone around him. He is survived by his wife, Gina; his children and their spouses; his grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and his brothers, Jack and Phillip. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Jerry; and his two beloved dogs, Babe and Thunder.

A prayer service and fellowship will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 3 to 5 p.m. at The Meadows Country Club in Moville, Iowa.