Richard 'Flash' Earl Nichols

Richard 'Flash' Earl Nichols

Sept. 16, 1953 - Dec. 14, 2012

BENKELMAN, Nebraska -- Richard "Flash" Earl Nichols passed away Friday, Dec. 14, 2012, at his home in Benkelman surrounded by his family. He was 59 years old.

Richard was born on Sept. 16, 1953, to Herbert Earl and Ruby Ruth (Crooks) Nichols in Grant, Nebraska. He attended school in Imperial.

On June 19, 1977, he married Marilyn K. Steinbeck. To this union three children were born.

Richard drove truck for 40 years of which he retired from in 1995. He then worked for Valley Farm in Benkelman for two years before completely retiring. He also spun wrenches for several years.

Richard loved to hunt and fish. He and his family spent a great deal of time at Enders Lake and Rock Creek. He also had a passion for drag racing, stock cars and demo derbies. In "the day," he even won a few trophies and some money. He especially enjoyed just sitting around with family and friends sharing and making memories. Rich also enjoyed spending time with Everett Stute during harvest, hauling bales for Relgene Zimbelman and the remainder of his time down at Fuzzy's Shop.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Herbert and Ruby Nichols; brother-in-law, William Pankonin; and step-grandson, Travis Havel.

He leaves to mourn his wife, Marilyn Nichols of Benkelman; son, Jason Nichols of Benkelman; daughters, Jennifer and husband, Brian Havel, and Kayla Nichols, all of Benkelman; grandchildren, Dakota, Brayden and step-granddaughter, Amber; twin step-great-grandchildren, Trynden and Tenlee; two sisters, Beth Bolio and special friend, Harry Whittington, and Clara Pankonin, all of Benkelman; brothers-in-law, Terry Steinbeck of Benkelman and Gary Steinbeck and wife, Linda, of Sterling, Colorado; numerous nieces, nephews, family and a host of friends.

Memorials may be given in his name.

Memorial services will be Wednesday, Dec. 19, 2012, 10:30 a.m., Mountain Time, at Trinity Baptist Church in Benkelman with Rev. Paul Faulk officiating.

Friends may go online at www.carpenterbreland.com to extend condolences to the family.

Carpenter Breland Funeral Home of McCook is in charge of the arrangements.