Nikkel, Jacob P. (Jim) (1913-2001)

"Mennonite Brethren Herald" obituary: 2001 Oct 12 p. 28

Birth date: 1913 Mar 15

text of obituary:

JACOB P.(Jim) NIKKEL

Jacob P. (Jim) Nikkel of Coaldale, Alta. passed away Aug. 9. He was born Mar. 15, 1913 to Peter and Anna Nikkel in Orenburg, Russia. The family immigrated to Steinbach, Man. in 1926 and moved to Coaldale 2 years later. He married Louise Gossen Jan. 24, 1941. They farmed near Coaldale. In 1961 they bought land in Travers. They moved to Coaldale in 1971, retiring in the late 1970s. Eldest son Eric died in 1987. Louise died in 1992. He moved to Sunny South Lodge in 1994 and to Coaldale Health Care Centre in 1998. He was a sensitive, caring man of few words, but had a subtle humour. He came to faith in Christ through the ministry of Walter Gomez, was baptized and joined Coaldale MB Church. He served as a deacon and on the cemetery committee for years. His faith and love for the Lord were evident through his prayers and love for all. He provided fatherly care to the Vuong family when they came to Coaldale as refugees. He was involved with MCC and the Coaldale Senior Centre, and was named Mr. Senior Citizen of the Year in 1989. He enjoyed woodworking, golfing, bowling, curling and helping his sons on the farm. Predeceased by Louise, son Eric, 4 brothers and 4 sisters, he is mourned by sons Alvin and Harvey; 7 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; 1 sister and 1 brother. A memorial service was held Aug. 13 at Coaldale MB Church, with Lorne Willms and Rudy Heidebrecht ministering.