Gerald F. "Jerry" Nichols

Gerald F. "Jerry" Nichols, a beloved father, self-employed carpenter, and fishing enthusiast, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2026, a month shy of his 91st birthday. Born on March 19, 1935, in Wisconsin Rapids, WI, Jerry was a man of great patience and skill, a master of his trade, and a craftsman at heart. His love for building wasn't just a profession but extended to his hobbies, where he found joy in constructing miniature log cabins, a testament to his great attention to detail and love for his craft. Jerry served his country in in the Army National Guard for 4 years 1956-1960.

Jerry lived by this, seeing the potential in every piece of timber, every fishing lure he crafted, and every life he touched. He was an accomplished self-employed building contractor whose proudest achievements were the homes he built for his children. His legacy lives on in the structures he created and the love he built within his family.

Jerry is survived by his children, Wayne (Nancy) Nichols, Richard (Carol) Nichols, and Sandra (Bill) Eggett; his son-in-law, AL Villeneuve; his grandchildren, Kenneth Slattery, Sarah Slattery, Adam (Ryan) Ward, Jessica (Casey) Dennis, Heidi Ward, Christine Nichols, and Ross (Sarah) Nichols; great grandchildren, Ellie, Charlie, Avery, Phoebe and Sophie. and by his brother Jim Nichols.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Virginia Nichols; his loving wife, Donna Nichols; his sister, Judy Nichols; and his son, Charles Nichols. his daughter Rita Villeneuve unexpectedly passed away the day after Jerry on February 17, 2026.

The family would like to thank Interim Hospice, SDS Workers and all of "Jerry's Angels for all the care they gave Jerry and his family.

The visitation will be held at Herman-Taylor Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 2201 Chestnut Street, Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin, 54494, on Friday, 27 Feb 2026 at 9:00am CST. The funeral service will follow at the same location at 11:00am CST.

Jerry's life was marked by his unwavering determination, his strong work ethic, and his deep love for his family. His memory will continue to inspire those who knew him. We invite you to share your memories of Gerald and upload photos to his memorial page.