Barbara Jane Nichols

Barbara Jane Nichols….we could go on an on about this lady, but we are going to try to just give you the highlights. When an old friend from the neighborhood learned of Barbara’s passing she said “She was the light of the neighborhood for sure.…remember the time in the middle of the winter she grilled hotdogs in the garage, or TGIF parties on the front porch…remember the time…?” Barbara Uhler was born and raised in Toledo, spent her whole life there actually. She had two terrific brothers who died way too young, Gordon (Bud) and Jack Uhler. Raised by a single mother, Barbara went to work early and had various jobs including writing for The Toledo Blade. One day this Catholic girl gets fixed up on a blind date with a handsome fella named Bob Nichols, and the next thing you know she is married and the mother of 6 kids: Bob Jr. (married to Lisa Olman), Sally Jo, Nancy (life partner Julie Mulder), Jim, Janie (married to Bill Wiciak) and Mary Pat; there are 10 beautiful grandkids as well. Being the wife of a coach meant the University of Toledo was a big part of her life. It was a role she totally embraced; she threw some fabulous homecoming parties and she could talk X’s and O’s with the best of them…. But she never lost her true passion: all things education. She began her college education at the age of 40 when her youngest child was 5. Graduated with honors in three years and went on to earn a masters degree in Education. She taught and supervised special education programs in several counties and served for seven years as Superintendent of Special Education in the Anthony Wayne School System. She spent her life working in and for schools and in particular for special needs kids. To quote an article written about her “she has devoted much time and energy to helping all of us become aware of what can be done for the special child.” It wasn’t just a job, it was her passion. When her family had outgrown clothing and toys, they did not donate to Goodwill…they took those items right to the families Barbara knew and served. If we had a nickel for every person who ever told us ”you have no idea what your mom did for me.” On Valentine’s Day 1990, Mom was “dealt a bad deal” to quote Dad. She was brain injured in an automobile accident. And yet she continued to impact people…again, the stories we could tell. Her story would not be complete without honoring those who cared for her for the past 28 years: Barb Dupre, Yoga Jenn, Kathy, Banita & Jackie. And a special thanks to the authors of the Chicken Soup for the Soul books…..we sure read them a great deal during those years. If you are reading this, you either knew and loved Barbara or someone in her family. Now we want to ask you to do something for her: volunteer. She spent her entire life donating her time and talent. Barbara had her kids working charity events from the time they were able. Giving to others is who she was….it seemed to come naturally to her. It would make us happy to hear how you have given back to your community, your parish, a loved one. Please consider it in honor of Barbara and let us know - we sure would appreciate it. And she would love it. Funeral mass at The Most Blessed Sacrament Parish, 22401 Castlewood Drive on Saturday, May 12, at 10:00 am. Donations can be made to the University of Toledo Foundation -The Bob and Barbara Nichols Scholarship Fund. Arrangements are being handled by Walker Funeral Home 419-841-2422. Condolences may be shared with the family at Walkerfuneralhomes.com.