Steven Lawrence Nicolls

Steven Lawrence Nicolls, 63, passed away at the Veterans Hospital in Sioux Falls, SD, on April 27, 2017, after battling numerous medical issues. He was born on May 28, 1955 (though incorrectly listed as June 28, 1956, on the death record), to Dorathy Ann Hicks and Wilson Howe of Gremmling Colorado.

Steven is survived by his daughters  Gail, Amelia (Amy) Nicolls, and Ginny Nicolls, along with grandchildren Mikel DeLeon, Ethan Rocha, Steven Schaaf (named after Steven), Christian Schaaf, Adan E. Rodriguez, and several great-grandchildren  His Sister Rebecca Hofer- Chenoweth and Step sister who wishes to be unnamed,  with nieces and nephews at the time of this publication.

Steve had a passion for technology and genealogy. As a software developer for Gateway Inc. for over 10 years, he mentored many, but he shared his knowledge most deeply with his daughter Ginny. We spent countless hours discussing the family tree and exploring his vast knowledge of computers. He taught me not just the technical side of things, but also how to approach problems with patience and persistence. Our talks, which focused on uncovering pieces of our family’s history, were some of the most cherished moments I had with him. We unfortunately lost contact in 2010, but the lessons and love he imparted remain deeply with me.

Steven served honorably in the United States Army. He also enjoyed painting landscapes, professional photography, fishing, and camping, and was an active member of the LDS Church. Steven, along with his mother Dorathy (Hicks) Hurd, dedicated countless hours to genealogy, preserving family history for future generations. His love of discovery and connection ran deep, and it’s a legacy that lives on through the work he started.

Steven resided in various places throughout his life, including New Mexico, Texas, Kennewick, Washington, Sioux City, Iowa, and Vermillion, South Dakota.

At the time of this publication, Steven’s ex-wife Jody Houlihan Nicolls, his mother Dorathy Ann( Hicks) Herd, and his sister Sherrie Parker had all passed away. Ironically, both Jody and Sherrie passed away on May 19, 2023.

Steven is remembered for his intelligence and his close friendship with Mark Yockey, a fellow member of the LDS community, who was with Steven when he passed.

Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Heritage Funeral Home, Sioux Falls, SD.