No one loved life the way DONALD WAYNE NICHOLS did.
He was called home to be with his Lord on January 9, 2024, at the age of 56. He battled long with cancer and illness for many years. He woke every morning with a song in his heart and on his lips. One of his most favorite sayings was “GIT ‘ER DONE”. He wasn’t one to put off what had to be done. He wasn’t afraid of the hard jobs.
He is survived by his wife Peggy Zaremba and a daughter Jasmin Katherine Nichols as well as a younger sister Dawn Carey. Also survived by his Aunt Lisa McClintock (Craig), and his Uncle Mike Swaim (Joan), and several nieces and nephews and cousins.
Donald Nichols had a stellar career of 20 plus years as a Chief Petty Officer Fire Controlman in our nation’s United States Navy. After the Navy Donald went to work for Rockwell Collins/Raytheon Technologies where he met his wife, Peggy.
Donald was born on March 21,1967 in North Chicago, IL. He graduated from Orange High School in Hillsboro, NC.
Chief Fire Controlman (SW AW) Donald W. Nichols was a true brother in arms. He loved his family, friends, country, and the Navy. Chief Nichols served around the world and enjoyed serving his country wherever duty was. The Navy is a better Navy because of his courage and devotion to duty. His legacy lives on today through the many Sailors he trained and served with. The Navy and the country lost a true patriot.
Those of us fortunate enough to have memories of his company will never forget his wonderful smile and laughter. If that is you when you remember him, smile big and laugh heartily.
Rest in peace Brother, Sailor, Shipmate, and Chief. You served with honor, and we are forever grateful for you.
Bravo Zulu!
Fair winds and following seas.
You stand relieved.
We have the watch.
Donald was an avid autograph collector with more than a thousand famous signatures. He had a love of movies and music and loved to go to concerts and comedy clubs. Donald was an avid gun collector and had a hobby of collecting Wheat Chief pennies. He said laughing was the best part of living. He also was a huge fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes. GO HAWKS!!! He also loved watching thunderstorms. Donald was generous to a fault and would not hesitate to help someone.
He will be dearly missed by all his friends and loved ones.
Due to pets in the home, Don’s family has requested that no flowers be sent. In lieu of flowers please consider planting a tree in Don’s memory or making a charitable contribution to the United States Navy Memorial.
