Ricky W. Nickel Sr.

Ricky W. Nickel Sr., 66, of Graytown, Ohio, died Thursday, April 22, 2021 in the University Hospital, Cleveland, Ohio after a lengthy illness. He was the son of Wayne M. and Hulda M. (Wendt) Nickel, born in Fremont, Ohio on February 8, 1955. He married the love of his life, Darlene K. (Lacourse), in Genoa, Ohio on April 12, 1975. Ricky was a heavy equipment mechanic by trade, starting his career working for Woodville Lime, later becoming Martin-Marietta Corp., for 46 years, retiring October 21, 2019. His passion for all things mechanical led him to restore classic cars and tractors. He was especially proud of his 1940 Ford Sedan, and the tractor he was currently working on. He loved to travel with Darlene in the 1940 Ford. They made trips out west and attended many car shows. He liked to attend flea markets and swap meets to look for car parts for his next project. His grandchildren were his weakness! He had great fun teasing them and loved them dearly, he would do anything for them! He also derived great joy from his canine companions Casey and Hemi. Ricky is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Darlene, sons, Ricky (Kim) Jr., Jamie (Jessica), Justin (Chelsea) and Doug (Tawny) Nickel, grandchildren, Emily, Kara, Ally, Italie, Renzo, Logan, Cason, Haylie, Brynnlie, Daisley, Brexton, Serenity, Dalton, Audrey and one more on the way! He was preceded in death by his parents. Visitation will be held from 4-8 pm, Wednesday, April 28, 2021 in the Robinson-Walker Funeral Home & Crematory, 501 West St., Genoa, Ohio. Masks and social distancing standards will be required. A funeral service will be held at 11 AM, Thursday, April 29, 2021 in the funeral home. Interment will follow in the Elliston Cemetery, Elliston, Ohio. Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or the Luther Home of Mercy, P.O. Box 187, Williston, Ohio 43468. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.walkerfuneralhomes.com.