William David "Dave" Nichols, born on December 21, 1929, in Malcolm, Alabama, passed away peacefully on January 5, 2025, in Madisonville, Texas. The youngest boy in a family of nine children, Dave was born at home to Arthur Gaines Nichols and India Nellie (Clarke) Nichols. His father's passing when he was just 10 years old, deeply shaped his life. Later, his mother remarried Al Hartman, who became a devoted father figure to him.
Dave's early years were marked by resilience and adaptability as his family moved across the country, They farmed turkeys in Nebraska before briefly settling in Kleberg,(Dallas County), Texas then returning to Alabama. It was in Kleberg that Dave developed a lifelong love for the Lone Star State. After graduating from Leroy High School in Alabama, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and served courageously during the Korean War. He often reflected on his survival during this time as an act of divine intervention.
Following his military service, Dave returned home and met Norma Jean Pugh. The two married on August 8, 1953, beginning a partnership that would span more than seven decades. Shortly after their marriage, the couple moved to California where Dave pursued an education in electronic engineering using his GI benefits. This education paved the way for a successful career as an engineer specializing in radar technology. During the height of the space race, Dave worked for North American Aviation (later Rockwell Industries, then Boeing) as a NASA contractor. His contributions included several radar-related patents and involvement in the development of the barcode system. In 1964, his work brought him back to Texas, where he and his family settled in Clear Lake.
After retiring in 1990, Dave and Jean embraced their shared passion for square dancing. Together they danced with various clubs across Texas and Louisiana, creating cherished memories and lasting friendships along the way. A devoted family man throughout his life, Dave treasured time spent with loved ones - whether embarking on long road trips to visit relatives or enjoying hunting trips with his brothers, nephews, and sons.
Dave is preceded in death by his parents; stepfather Al Hartman; siblings Ola Sibley, Raymond Nichols, Joseph Nichols, Lydia Jones, Louise Naquin, Mary Nichols, Inez Naquin, and Elsie Smith; and his beloved daughter Diana Lynn Nichols Minks. He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Norma Jean Nichols; sons David Bill Nichols of Blanchard, Texas, and Noah Daniel Nichols (wife Cindy) of Madisonville, Texas; grandchildren Justin Minks (wife Holly), Noah Nichols (wife Rachel), Amy Danielle (Elle) Nichols, and Evan Nichols; as well as great-grandchildren Jonah Minks and Blaire Minks.
A memorial service will be held at Pace Funeral Home in Livingston, Texas, on Sunday, January 26th at 2 p.m. May Dave's memory bring comfort to all who knew him and serve as a lasting testament to a life well-lived. |
