He and his family lived next door to me when I was a kid in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. If I was bad just before Christmas time my dad would call him and tell him not to bring me any presents. I thought my dad was really talking to Santa Claus. 

We moved to back to Springfield, Missouri and some time later Nick and his family got transferred to Detroit.  The last time I ever saw him was in the summer of 1955.

As we mourn the passing of Sgt. Nick, we give thanks to God that he brought Sgt. Nick into our lives here at Patriot PAWS. He was a special friend who was sure to bring a smile whenever his daughter, Cheryl brought him to visit us. He was a kind and gentle soul who always gave more than he took and made everyone feel special. We were honored to share his birthdays with him and to be able to name a service dog in training after him. Canine Sgt. Nick will be placed with a disabled veteran soon and continue to carry on in the tradition of his namesake. Love to all of Sgt. Nick's friends and family. Thank you for sharing him. 

I remember our family reunion in Panama City, FL back when I was just a teenager.  We were all out on the beach and us kids had rafts playing out in the ocean.  Uncle Nick decided he wanted to ride the waves on the raft and proceeded to attempt to get on the raft.  No matter how hard he tried, he could not get on that raft!  We all had tears in our eyes from laughing so hard.  One of those you had to be there to appreciate it.  He tried so hard, but just couldn’t accomplish the feat.  Mom has a picture somewhere of him attempting this feat.  Also remember that he and Uncle Carl burned the top of their feet that same trip!  Good times and such good, happy memories.  RIP Uncle Nick!  We love you and you will always be in our hearts!!❤️

My condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Nichols.
I hope that good memories and the God of all comfort helps you during this difficult time. (1 Peter 5:7)

If you could look into my heart, only then would you understand the respect and love I have, and always will have, for my dad. Such a gift, honor and joy to be with him during this last 5 years. He fought his greatest battle in life with amazing strength, fortitude and a heart overflowing with love, living up to his life's motto "Never Give Up."

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Norval "Sgt. Nick" Avis Nichols

March 20, 1917 – December 25, 2018

Fentress Mortuary

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