Elmer Nichols

Elmer Fredrick Nichols passed away peacefully on July 8, 2015 at Iola Rehabilitation and Health Care Center in Iola, Kansas. He was born at home in rural Carlyle on October 8, 1912 to William Harold and Libby Helen (Kettle) Nichols. He grew up in the Carlyle area and graduated from Iola High School in 1930. He married Fern Roney on January 26, 1935 in Erie, Kansas. They lived and farmed in the Carlyle area until 1945 when they moved to their farm north of Geneva where they raised their two daughters. Through his adult life Elmer was very active in the community. He was a lifetime member of Carlyle Presbyterian Church where he served as elder in the church as well as the treasurer for 30 years. He served on the Geneva School Board for 17 years. Elmer served on the Board of Directors of the United Electric Cooperative for 40 years, 21 of which he was president. He also served on the Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Service for more than 25 years. He is survived by 2 daughters: Patricia Nichols and Sharon Frederick both of West Des Moines, IA; 2 granddaughters: Stephanie (John) Reinhardt of Clive, IA and Lauren Frederick of West Des Moines, IA; 3 great grandchildren: Abigail, Gabriel, and Sadie Reinhardt of Clive, IA; and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, Fern Nichols; their infant daughter, Beverly Ann Nichols; his parents; an infant brother, William; his brother, Raymond Nichols; and his sister, Dorothy Loomis. The family would like to express their thanks and appreciation to all the staff at the Iola Rehabilitation and Health Care Center for their loving care of Elmer in his later years. The visitation will be held on Friday, July 10, 2015 from 5-7PM at the Waugh-Yokum & Friskel Chapel in Iola, Kansas. The service will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2015 at 10AM at the funeral home as well. Burial will follow in the Geneva Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, a memorial contribution can be made to Carlyle Presbyterian Church. To sign the guestbook online or leave a condolence, go to www.iolafuneral.com .