William “Bill” Nickel passed away from a heart condition Thursday, April 20. He was born February 24, 1957 to Alice (Holzbach) and Bill Nickel in Milwaukee, WI.
Bill grew up in Wisconsin, where he met Cheryl, the love of his life, during high school. After they were married, they vacationed in Montana where they instantly fell in love with the beauty of the area, and decided this is where they wanted to raise their family. Following their move to the Flathead Valley, they were blessed with their two children, Levi in 1983 and Sasha Rose in 1987.
Bill spent his career in construction. His incredible expertise included welding, woodworking, drywall, and painting. For the past several years, he has been the proud owner of his own painting business.
Bill’s mission in life was to help others. His passion for this was evident through his selfless giving and volunteering. He spent three decades as a fireman within the Flathead Valley, starting out with Smith Valley Fire Department, and then devoting most of the time to the Creston Fire Department. He was a big brother for Big Brothers and Big Sisters, and more recently he mentored many people through his incredible talent as a woodworker. He shared his woodworking knowledge as a member of Glacier WoodTurners and with fellow wood workers at Flathead High School. As an integral member of the Mountain Brook Homestead Foundation, he spearheaded the renovation of the historic school. In addition to all the organizations he volunteered with, he shared his love by being eager to lend a hand or an ear to any friend, neighbor, or community member. He was a role model and mentor to many, and a countless number of people consider him their best friend.
Bill loved spending time outdoors. He enjoyed playing softball, coaching soccer, hiking, cross country skiing, sledding, snowboarding, walking, and sitting around a campfire, especially with his wife and family. His quick smile and contagious laugh will be missed dearly.
Bill played an irreplaceable role in his son and daughter-in-law’s lives. He contributed greatly in all aspects, including renovations, projects, building trailers, and assisting with Glacier Shave Ice. He was a best friend to them both and selflessly gave his time and advice whenever needed.
Bill was preceded in death by an infant daughter Sasha Rose, his parents Alice and Bill Nickel, his father-in-law Richard Houdek, his younger brother John Nickel, and his brother-in-law Joe Houdek.
Bill is survived by his wife Cheryl (Houdek) Nickel, his son Levi, his daughter-in-law Sarah (Blevins) Nickel, his granddaughters Madison Rose and Makena’Lei Sophia, his siblings Bruce (Nancy) Nickel, Mary (Jeff) Ames, Ben (Laura) Nickel, Chuck (Rebecca) Nickel, Julie (Paul) Einsiedel, his sister-in-law Linda Nickel, his mother-in-law Monica Houdek, Cheryl’s siblings Cathy (Bob) Kasten, Patty (Tony) Zulli, Jerry (Alicia) Houdek, John (Susan) Houdek, Mary (Alan) Lane, Judy (Mike) Olguin, Jim Houdek, Therese (Mark) Joanis, sister-in-law Penny Houdek and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Bill deeply touched the hearts of all that had the pleasure of knowing him. In the words of his granddaughters, “We were so blessed to have him”, as our dear, loving, and caring husband, father, grandfather, and friend. If you wish to honor Bill, please continue the chain of love by lending a hand to others, as he so enjoyed doing.
A gathering to celebrate Bill and his life will be held at a later time this spring.
Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family. To send notes of condolence to the family please visit www.buffalohillfh.com.