Fred Nickels, 73, passed away on December 12, 2022, in Cape Coral Florida. He is survived by his wife Patti and daughter Jennifer Nickels. Preceded in death by his parents, David G Nickels and Virginia D. Burgess, and his brother, Marshall G Nickels.

Fred had a zest for life and loved sharing adventures with his wife Patti. He loved to travel and explore. He was kind to everyone and always had a smile. He loved to talk about his travels and his life experiences, which were many. He had a good eye for details, and had no problems telling you how something could be improved, but it just seemed that he was right, every single time. He would open up his heart, his home and his life to anyone that wanted to come in, and those that did, are better for it.

Fred loved the holidays, decorating and setting up his massive Christmas Village every year. He has friends from all over the country and the world. He could enjoy himself on big long trips or just sitting outside enjoying the evening.

On some of the adventures they dress for themes and Fred never disappointed, and his and Patti's outfits were always a big hit at the event. Probably again attributed to his attention to detail. Fred would want everyone to continue on in adventures in their own lives. And we ask that you honor him this coming year by dedicating one of your adventures in his memory.

Fred could be called the Master of caring and friendship. When he spoke to you, you knew he had his complete attention focused on you. He truly valued every word you had to say. When you were accepted into Fred's group of friends, you knew that you could trust him completely and that he knew he could trust you as the same. Fred was one who was never in a friendship for what he could gain. It was a friendship of what he could share.

His love and respect for his Angel, Patti, knew no bounds. Watching them together would bring a sense peace to all that knew him. He was always there to open each door, to bring the car around so she would not need to step out in the rain, and his face showed the joy, the pride, the complete love, when he looked at her. She gained strength and confidence through him he experienced what unconditional love can bring to a person.

His respect for his friends was much the same. Whether it was a simple dinner out, an outing to the Renaissance Fair, or a trip to a Caribbean Island, the place was never more important to him than the person. Those who were there could feel his caring and concern. Fred wanted all to be happy, not because he planned so many details, but because he wanted those who were with him to be happy, not to have a major care in the world. Fred was the finest planner of all things. Not because he wanted control, but because he hoped he could give people a time of bliss.

Fred traveled the world for some of the jobs he had, he saw things that most don't, he experienced many cultures and sub-cultures. And even for those that he met but once he gave them the respect that they deserved. Yet in all that he did and saw, he seemed to be most happy when he could return home to be with those he loved and those he cared deeply about.

It is said by some there are three deaths "The first death is the failure of the body. The second is the burial of the body. The most definitive death is the third death. This occurs when no one is left to remember us." For those who knew Fred, remember him. Say his name, tell stories about him, repeat his jokes. It is up to each of us to not allow Fred's third death to occur.

To honor Fred, there will be no formal services. There will, however, be a Celebration of Life after the holidays because, as we all know, Fred loved a good party!!