David Nickel

David Alan Nickel, age 75, passed away peacefully on November 27, 2025, in Enumclaw, Washington. A lifelong resident of the area, David, was born on August 1, 1950, in Renton to Paul D. and Catherine Nickel.

David was a proud graduate of the Issaquah High School Class of 1970. Always eager for a new adventure, he asked his mother to teach him to cook shortly after graduation so he could work on a boat in Alaska. Armed with a cookbook from his mom, he began a lifelong love of cooking before answering the call to serve his country in the United States Army. He served with honor from 1970 to 1973, stationed in Korea.

Upon returning home, David became a skilled welder for Cam Industries and later explored his entrepreneurial spirit by partnering with his brother, Mike, in a steam-cleaning business. David eventually found his long-term professional home at Ben's Cleaners, where he worked as an outside salesman from 1988 until his retirement in July 2015.

David found his greatest joy in the outdoors and the kitchen. He was an avid boater, fisherman, and crabber who also enjoyed the simple peace of flying kites and camping. He was a talented cook with a particular fondness for seafood and "oriental" cuisine.

David's greatest pride was his family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Paula Nickel; his daughter, Melissa Secord her husband John Secord; his granddaughter, Samantha Jackson her husband Benjamin Jackson; and his great-granddaughter, Hazel Jackson. He also leaves behind his brothers, Gerald W. Nickel, Patrick M. Nickel, a niece and nephew. He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Catherine.

A memorial service with military honors will be held on Friday, January 23, 2026 at 2:00pm at Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent, WA.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in David's memory to: American Heart Association, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, or American Diabetes Association