Robert L. “Nick” Nickels, 93, of Peoria, passed away on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at his residence at Buehler Home. Born in Peoria, on May 26, 1932, he was the only son of the late Robert J. and Eleanor M. (Anshutz) Nickels. Following high school, he served in the Air National Guard. On December 1, 1956, he married Anita J. “Nita” Powers. After 69 years of marriage, she preceded him in death on January 25, 2026.
Survivors include two sons, David (Nancy) Nickels of Greenfield, IN, and Daniel Nickels of Peoria; and two granddaughters, Emily (Cory) Pollen of Indianapolis, IN, and Lesley Nickels of St. Pete, FL.
Nick worked as a Senior Energy Dispatcher for Central Illinois Light Company for 43 years, retiring in 1994. He was a volunteer for several different organizations including the Peoria County Jail, and was a member of the St. Thomas Catholic Church and their men's club.
Visitation will take place for both Nick and Nita on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at St. Thomas Catholic Church, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass at 11:00 a.m. Interment will be private. Memorial contributions can be made to St. Thomas Catholic Church or the Multiple Sclerosis Society – Illinois Chapter.
