Leslie Francis Nikodem Jr.

Leslie F. Nikodem Jr., 87, of Tucson, Arizona, passed away on November 4, 2025. He was born October 1, 1938 in Los Angeles, California. As a young man, Les achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. At seventeen, he enlisted in the United States Navy, serving his country with honor.

Les married his devoted wife, Carol Ann (née Shollenberger) in 1963; they shared sixty-two years together, raising three daughters. Les’s legacy continued to grow, encompassing five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren whom he adored.

Les dedicated 34 years of his professional life to Battelle Memorial Institute in Columbus, Ohio, where his ingenious mind led to patented development and project management before retiring as a Contract Officer. Les and a coworker formed a corporation and wrote a project management software that they continued to market and support after retirement from Battelle.

A devoted Ohio State Buckeye fan, Les loved college football season. He was an avid golfer and a certified scuba diver, who enjoyed snorkeling, water skiing, and trips to the river with his kids in his Fireball camper, always with his reliable boat in tow. Known as a Jack of All Trades, Les lived life on his own terms and found joy in every adventure.

What Les loved the most was his family. He spent many years compiling genealogy, dedicating countless hours to researching family history and preserving his heritage for future generations. He is survived by his loving wife, Carol; daughters Brenda Shintaku (Randy), Darcie Loescher and Beth Nikodem (Mary); grandchildren Amy (Matt), Aaron (Samantha), Grace, Corey and Kelsea; great-grandchildren Elia, Finn, Haven and Wilder; many nephews and nieces; and two beloved dogs, Daisy and Dolly.

Les was predeceased by his father Leslie, mother Annie Lee, brother William a.k.a. Bill, and sister Diana.

A private family service will be held. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to the Alzheimer's Association.