Bertal E. "Gene" Nickell, 75, passed away Saturday, June 16, 2018 at Parkview Hospital Randallia in Fort Wayne. He was born in West Liberty, KY, to the late Bertal Jay and Clara Hazel Nickell. Gene was a Vietnam Army Veteran and served from 1962-1968. He worked in the warehouse at Midwest Air Filter for 20 years, retiring in 2015. Gene was an avid Chicago Cubs fan and enjoyed watching action and western movies. His true passion was spending time with his children and grandchildren. Surviving are his children, Ginger L. Burcham of Fort Wayne, IN; Nickey E. (Paula) Nickell of New Haven, IN; Duane E. Nickell of Kendallville, IN; Johnny E. Nickell of New Haven, IN; 5 Grandchildren, 2 Great-Grandchildren. Bertal was preceded in death by a sister, Mary Short, and grandson, Christopher Burcham. Service is 1:30 pm, Thursday June 21, 2018 at D.O. McComb & Sons Lakeside Park Funeral Home, 1140 Lake Avenue with calling one hour prior. Calling also Wednesday, June 20, 2018, from 2 - 5 & 7 - 9 pm at the funeral home. Burial in I.O.O.F. Cemetery New Haven, New Haven, Indiana. Memorials may be made to the Paralyzed Veterans of America or St. Labre Indian School of Ashland, MT. To sign the online guest book, go to www.mccombandsons.com.
