Ernest E. Nicolls

January 19, 1928 - October 8, 2012

Ernest “Ernie” Nicolls passed away in Placerville on October 8, 2012.

Ernie was born in Wessington Springs S. Dakota January 19, 1928. The family moved to El Dorado, CA in 1939, then to Diamond Springs. He graduated from Ringold grammar school and El Dorado High. He served in the Philippines in the Navy.

When he returned from the Philippines he started flying at the Placerville Airport. Flying was a joy to him, starting with models as a youngster. He was a charter member of the Experimental Aircraft Assn. Chapter 512 in Placerville, as well as two other chapters.

He worked at various jobs settling in the Dept. of Transportation, El Dorado County. He worked there for 30 years retiring in 1983. He married Aileen in Oct. 1949 and they enjoyed traveling, camping and sailing. Ernie greatly enjoyed woodworking and hand crafted many guitars. Ernie is survived by his wife Aileen, daughter Deborah Nicolls and son, David (Toni) Nicolls who both live in the Placerville area. He is also survived by three sisters, Sally (Frank) Lovings, Sylva Wilkens both of Carmichael and Ercel Brown of Ft. Collins CO. Ernie is predeceased by his parents, Boyd Nicolls and Mildred Lee and his brother, Keith.

There will be no services as per his wishes. Contributions in Ernie’s name may be made to the Experimental Aircraft Assn, Chapter 512 of Placerville or Snowline Hospice, 6520 Pleasant Valley Rd., Diamond Springs, CA 95619, www.snowlinehospice.org. Friends may sign an electronic guestbook and leave condolences at www.chapelofthepinesfunerals.com.