Kirk Matthew Nichols

Born October 16, 1970 to Sam and Lori Nichols in Normal, Illinois. Kirk grew up in Springfield,

Illinois surrounded by a loving Christian family, receiving the Lord Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior at a young age. Kirk had a love for hands-on-work that shaped the man he became. He graduated from Springfield High School and went on to earn his Bachelor's degree in Economics and Industrial Technology from Illinois State University. He later completed his MBA at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, with an emphasis on Finance and Supply Chain Management, graduating with honors.

Kirk built a successful career in the building materials industry, working for Georgia Pacific, Bluelinx and Metsa Wood Products. He was highly regarded in the engineered lumber business and respected for his work ethic and relationship-building. He was also responsible for a product patent during his career.

Outside of his profession, Kirk enjoyed spending time with his family and focused on the simple joys that made life rich. He particularly loved taking annual hunting trips with James, his son, to his family's land in Illinois and volunteering to build musical sets with his wife for his daughter Kate's musical performances. On the weekends, you would find him trying new recipes on his Green Egg and tackling home remodeling projects. In all of these things, he consistently used his talents and gifts to help those around him.

Kirk is survived by his loving wife, Lori Nichols; his children James and Kate; his parents, Sam and Lori Nichols; his brother Shane, and his wife Amy, and their sons Graham and Nash; his sister Andrea and her husband Mike; his Uncle Roy and Aunt Alice Nottingham; his Aunt Judi Pierce and his cousins. He is also remembered by friends whose lives were touched with his loyalty, warmth, humor and kindness.

He is proceeded in death by his Grandparents Arley and Mae Nichols and William and Catherine Nottingham.

A small private family service officiated by Pastor Jeff Nelsen, will take place in Springfield, Illinois on December 29, 2025. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Young Life Ministries or Ducks Unlimited.