Robert Nikolas

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Robert Leon Nikolas, affectionately known as "Shine" or "Bob," age 85, who passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on Friday, April 18, 2025.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be 11:00 a.m., Friday, May 2, 2025, at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Aberdeen, SD with Father Jordan Samson officiating.

Visitation will be one hour before the service at the church.

A time of fellowship and luncheon will follow the mass in the parish hall. Burial will follow the luncheon at St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Aberdeen Public Schools Foundation in honor of Robert contact Gretchen Sharp at 605-725-7118.

Carlsen Funeral Home, 1708 8th Ave NE, Aberdeen, is in charge of arrangements. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook and also view the service at www.aberdeenfuneralhome.com.

Bob was born on March 3, 1940, in Aberdeen, South Dakota, to his loving parents, Leo and Cecilia (Sahli) Nikolas. Bob's educational journey began at St. Mary's Catholic School in Aberdeen, and by the eighth grade, he entered the seminary in Dearborn, Michigan, where he continued his schooling. During the summers, he returned to Aberdeen to work to help pay for the seminary. Bob eventually left the seminary and attended Northern State College in Aberdeen, where he earned his teaching degree.

Bob was a devout Catholic, serving as a lector, cantor, and in the men's choir. Bob believed the true measure of faith lies not in judgment, but in embracing others with open arms, reflecting the unconditional love of Jesus. This lesson of acceptance was one he tried to live by daily.

On August 26, 1961, Bob married the love of his life, Lyla Mae Emery, in Aberdeen. Their love story began when they met as colleagues at Morrell Meats, and their first date was on Homecoming Gypsy Days. Together they raised a family of four: Robi, Shawn, Carmen, & Julie. Bob was preceded in death by his son, Shawn, in 1999, and he has been longing to be reunited with him and Lyla since her passing in 2016.

Bob devoted his life to serving. He taught German and English at Simmons Junior High School and Aberdeen Central High School from 1965-1995. He served on the Aberdeen School Board, Library Board of Trustees, as a street commissioner, public safety commissioner, and for a short while as the mayor of Aberdeen. After taking early retirement, Bob and Lyla enjoyed traveling and leading tours both abroad and throughout the U.S., making precious memories visiting all 50 states and numerous countries with family and friends.

Bob's warm heart, sense of humor, and love for his family will never be forgotten. Though his presence will be dearly missed, his legacy of love will continue to inspire all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy that teaches us all to embrace life with love, compassion, and an open heart.

Bob is survived by his three children: Roberta Kolden of Aberdeen, SD, Carmen Nikolas of Mitchell, SD, and Dr. Julie Nikolas of Tucson, AZ. Their love and support were constant throughout Bob's life. Five grandchildren: Danielle (Jarret) Smith of Mitchell, SD; Griffin Thomure and Emery Thomure, of Tuscon, AZ; Jacob (Kenydie) Nikolas and Gabriella Nikolas of Sioux Falls, SD; great-grandchildren, Gauge Smith and Rex Smith; five siblings: sister Mary Ann Nikolas; brothers Philip "Flip" Nikolas, Timothy "Timmy" (Eileen) Nikolas, Thomas "Tommy" (Jane) Nikolas, and David (Cindy) Nikolas. Brothers-in-law Donn Kuhfeld and Jerry Winjum; sister-in-law Wanda Emery.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Cecilia Nikolas; sons-in-law Todd Kolden and David Farmen; seven siblings: brothers: Edward Nikolas, Leo "Leroy" (Joan) Nikolas, William "Beno" (Jerri) Nikolas, Henry "Hank" (Sharon) Nikolas; sisters, Mildred "Alice" Nikolas, Pauline Winjum, and Madonna Kuhfeld. Brother-in-law Duane Emery; sisters-in-law Kay Nikolas and Evelyn Nikolas.

May he rest in peace, reunited with his beloved wife, Lyla, and son, Shawn, knowing that his life was a testament to love, faith, and service.

Cards can be sent to Carmen Nikolas 1031 E 2nd Ave Mitchell, SD 57301.