Stephen "Steve" Patrick Nichols

Saint Patrick's Day has always been the most important holiday for our family and this Saint Patrick's Day it became even more special. On Saint Patrick's Day, seventy-one years ago, Stephen Patrick Nichols, entered this world, and we are so saddened that this Saint Patrick's Day, he left this world. His unconditional love had no boundaries, and unfortunately, neither did the horrendous brain cancer, Glioblastoma. After 19 months and 15 days, Stephen, the Warrior, gained his wings. Heaven definitely gained an angel! He was surrounded by his loving family, who sang him Happy Birthday, told stories, and cried many tears.
Steve was a lifelong Des Moines resident. He graduated from North High School and retired from Mercy Medical Center after 24 years of service. Steve was a handyman by trade and loved woodworking, especially pen making. He enjoyed fishing, watching his favorite TV shows, spending time with friends, and helping others. Above all, Steve loved watching his kids grow up and his grandchildren play. He also enjoyed recently becoming an honorary member of the Friendly Sons of Saint Patrick. Steve will be remembered as a kindhearted, compassionate, and caring man that would help anyone out with whatever they needed.
Steve left his mark on so many lives. He will be deeply missed by his loving wife of 44 years, LaVonne Nichols; daughters, Teresa (Virgil) Woods, Deanna (Michael) Olechnovics, Patricia (Judson) Van Weelden, and Mary (Ryan Rivas) Nichols; grandchildren, Carissa Woods, Virgil Woods II, Marco Antonio Nichols, Payton Olechnovics, Serenity Rivas, Stella Van Weelden, and Steele Rivas; great-granddaughter, Arielle Bonner; mother, Mary Alice Connolly; siblings, Ann Ketch and John (Joyce) Nichols; and extended family members Angela (Rod) Reed, Katie (Eric) Small, Bob Ketch, John Ketch, Jennifer (Steven) Burns, Matthew (Hannah) Nichols, KC Reed, TJ Reed, Tanner Small, Madelyn Small, Amelia Burns, and Isla Nichols.
He was preceded in death by his father, Clint Nichols; step-father, John Connolly III, and his brother-in-law, David Ketch.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 23, 2019 at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street. The family will greet friends following the service.
Memorial contributions may be directed to SouthSide Cares in loving memory of Steve.
Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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