Jack D. Nichols

Jack Dale Nichols passed away at home on May 21, 2023. Jack was born October 14, 1930 to Albena Petersen Nichols and Dale James Nichols in Carroll, Iowa. His parents thought the sun rose and set on Jack. Jack was a person of high integrity, always putting others before himself. He was a role model.

Jack graduated from Lincoln High School in June 1948. He attended Drake University. Jack served in the Air Force for two years during the Korean Conflict. After being discharged from the service, he was employed by the U.S. Postal Service for 38 years, retiring from the finance office in 1992.

Jack married Bette Christensen Hagins on December 21, 1972. They lived in Indianola until May 10, 2006, at which time they moved to Waukee. Jack always enjoyed working in the yard, but it was time to downsize so they moved to a condo. Jack was happy to leave the chores of taking care of a home and yard behind him.

Jack loved his family and family was his number one priority. After retirement, he and his son, Steve, enjoyed golfing together.

Jack’s Uncle Pete always said “Enjoy traveling while you are young because when you’re old you’re too tired.” So true! Jack and Bette had many interesting trips, traveling to several countries, as well as many U.S. trips. They spent some winter vacations in Port Aransas, Texas. They enjoyed square dancing for a time, took ballroom dancing lessons, and had fun dancing, especially at the Val-Air. They were long-time members of the Playhouse and enjoyed theater and various music venues. He also was a big sports fan.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents, and sadly, his son, James (Jim) Nichols (he missed him so much), and his stepson, Robert Hagins Jr.

Jack is survived by his wife, Bette Nichols; his children, Steven Nichols, Diane Nichols, and Sharon Parry; his bonus daughter Diane (Steven Oswalt). Jack is also survived by three grandchildren, Lydia Hagins Johnson (Shaun), Rachel Parry (two great-grandchildren), and Adam Borisenko. When they were young, we shared many and varied adventures.

At Jack’s request, his memorial service will be private and his cremains will be buried at Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Van Meter.

Memorial contributions may be directed to a Food Bank of your choice in loving memory of Jack and online condolences expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

“Jack was my loving, sweet, adoring husband for 50 years. He will always be in my heart and forever missed.”

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