Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Doug Nichols Obituary
Doug "Nick" Sherman Nichols, 53, was born January 13, 1961 and died suddenly Saturday, December 13, 2014.
Born in Canton, he graduated from GlenOak High School, and spent much of his life in Middlebranch as the owner of Nick's Sales and Service, and Nick's Railway Supply. As the unofficial "Mayor of Middlebranch" he worked alongside his loving mother, Elizabeth M. Nichols, at his shop for 34 years.
While still in high school, at age 15, he began his business at their home. Because of his age, his mother helped him deliver mowers in the trunk of her Cadillac. Before long, he moved the business to Middlebranch Road. Constantly evolving to meet customers' needs, the business included mower repair, small engine repair, tool sharpening, equipment rental, machining, and train items for the intermediate to advanced modeler. Doug could hear an engine and know the make of the equipment.
He taught classes for Ford Motor Retirees for several years. Constantly learning, he was a certified Briggs & Stratton Master Service Technician, attending schools and updates with Tecumseh, Snapper, and other brands.
In 2011, he closed his retail operations, assisting his mom, and working part-time with his long-time friends, the Boettler family, at North Canton Repair. He also had worked at Minuteman Press.
Helping others and problem-solving were his main goals. He was rich with friendships, many which grew from relationships through his businesses and high school connections. He was a member of NRMA, OPE, and previously with the area dealer co-op. An avid reader, he loved books on World War II, railroads, and human interest stories. He always thanked members of the military service. An extremely giving person, Doug will be remembered for his love of God, family, friends, and animals, his eagerness to help others, and his ability to bring a smile to the faces of others.
A member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, he was preceded in death by his dad, Sherman Oliver Nichols and stepfather, Jerry Bridger. He is survived by his loving wife of nine years, Gale Nagel Nichols; mother, Elizabeth Nichols (Bridger); his sisters and brothers-in-law, Jill and Bill Toy, David and Lisa Stouffer; and nephews, Grant and Ryan Stouffer.
Friends may call Friday from 6 to 8:30 p.m. in the Karlo-Libby Funeral Home, and Saturday from 1 to 2 p.m. at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 4120 Cleveland Ave. NW, Canton. A funeral service will follow Saturday at 2 p.m. at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Boy Scouts of America - Buckeye Council, Stark Parks, or Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Canton, Ohio.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Doug Nichols
Sponsored by Akron Beacon Journal.
Kirk and Lynn Baxter Lander Wyoming
December 10, 2022
Remembering a truly special man.
Lynn Baxter
December 10, 2020
We fondly remember him.
January 2, 2015
My profound sympathy to Doug's family. I have just learned of his death, and am so sorry I could not attend. He was such a nice guy. If I can be of any help, please call 330 4776654, Jim Eakin
Janette (Moffat) Keblesh
January 2, 2015
Gale, I am so sorry to hear of your husbands passing. I saw it on the Martin Luther Church's fb page. Losing someone this suddenly and expectedly is not easy. May God comfort you and your family during this difficult time. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Loretta Berner
December 22, 2014
Gale, I was so sorry to hear about Doug's death. I just heard yesterday. You have my deepest sympathy. I often think about all of you when I pass your home. Having known Doug and his mom for the past thirty odd years, and you since your marriage, you all were so kind and considerate to me and my extended family. We were good friends and had a good working relationship. May God comfort you and may your memories of Doug sustain you.
The East Canton Railroad Club
December 21, 2014
WITH OUR HEART FELT CONDOLENCES AND PRAYERS ARE EXTENDED TO THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF DOUG (NICK) GOD HAS CALLED HOME,ONE OF THIS WORLD's TRULY GREAT LIFE CONDUCTORS. HE WILL BE MISSED BY US,ALL......
December 20, 2014
Gale, Please accept our sympathies. Doug always had a smile and story to share with us at reunions. God has received a special angel. Our love and prayers for you folks. Your cousins Bob, Pat, Paul and Joanne. May God comfort you.
Christal
December 18, 2014
Having ran a lawn care business for many years , I could not have done it without him! He had a wonderful sense of humor and was always so nice. I told him he was my favorite mechanic! He is going to be missed by so many. May your faith help you in this very difficult time! I will remember him with so many great memories!
December 18, 2014
My sympathies to Doug's Family.Doug and I shared our love of the Western Maryland Railway and though we only ever saw each other once or twice a year,it was always a joyous reunion.I'll miss him very much.
Thomas Curtis
December 18, 2014
Dear Gale,
Your kindness and love toward Doug meant so much to him. Knowing that he passed away so close to you is somehow comforting to my sadness for both of you. You made a great couple and fulfilled many of each others needs and desires. His eternal life has now taken another turn, where no one knows, but his good nature and fun loving spirit will be enjoyed, wherever that might be.
Your friends,
Tom & Linda Curtis
The Massillon Railroad Club
December 18, 2014
Please accept our sympathy for the loss of Nick who made the world a better place for a lot of his railroad friends.
December 18, 2014
Dear Gail,
I am so sorry for you loss. He was such a good and giving person. His kindness and caring will always be remembered. His sense of humor and crazy antics made him so much fun. May God comfort you. Sincerely,
Polly Prater Albitz
December 17, 2014
To Doug's family, my deepest Sympathy. Doug was one of the kindest, honest, person I had the pleasure of knowing. Over the years of dealing with him at the mower shop we discovered that we had a similar interest in keeping and maintaining, old machines. I was proud to call him a friend.
December 17, 2014
TO THE FAMILY OF NICK
MAY THE LORD BE WITH YOU AT THIS TIME. YOU ARE ALL IN OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS, HE'LL BE MISSED.
VI AND THE GANG AT TRUE VALUE.
Marian Knipfer
December 17, 2014
Nick was one of my first clients when I began my radio sales career. I loved stopping in the shop and chatting with Nick and Liz. We had a lot of laughs. Please accept my sympathy. A good man, gone too soon.
Donna larson
December 17, 2014
Gail and Family,
I was shocked to hear of Doug's passing, He was an adorable man and Saint ,,He was always there to help,,He helped us many times as we would stop in and talk with him and his sweet Mother,,,Please know that our love and prayers are with you .And know that he is in heaven with all the rest of the angels'
God Bless
Charlie Copeland
December 16, 2014
Doug was a great friend and a wonderful person.
December 16, 2014
My prayers go out to Gail and his family.He was an Awesone guy and joy to be around. I will miss him.
Michael L Bradley aka Alex's Dad
Doug Dauer
December 16, 2014
Went to Glen oak with Doug. Went into military and every time I came home would stop in and see Doug and get updates on everyone, including our friend Tim McCullough. Very sorry to hear his passing. He will be missed.
Doug Dauer
December 16, 2014
Went to Glen oak with Doug. Went into military and every time I came home would stop in and see Doug and get updates on everyone, including our friend Tim McCullough. Very sorry to hear his passing. He will be missed.
Steve & Cherrie Rusnok
December 16, 2014
My husband and I would like to express our deepest sympathy to your family on the loss of your loved one. May Gods love surround you with peace and comfort.
sue leno restrauant
December 16, 2014
sorry to hear about nick he was a great guy
Gary & Mariane Antonacci
December 16, 2014
Doug and Gale were a great couple. Gale was a blessing to Doug's life and he was better for her. Doug your wit and humor, honesty, friendship, and caring will be greatly missed. I know that there is a lot of laughter in heaven because you are there. Our prayers are that God's peace, grace, and mercy are with Gale and all of Doug's family and close friends. God bless You Gale.
Doug Chovan
December 16, 2014
I have fond memories of visiting Doug's model railroad shop numerous times over the years and appreciated his enthusiasm and passion for the hobby as well as his expert advice on DCC. Will certainly miss our lively conversations. I recall Doug running regular ads in MR magazine's popular retailer directory about his shop with the catchy tagline, "You'll be impressed!" . . . he definitely delivered on that promise during every visit!
December 16, 2014
So sorry for the loss of your son, Babs. I just read it in the newspaper. I was so shocked. My thoughts are with you at this time of sorrow. I remember Doug when he was a child. His Dad was my cousin & I've always thought of you as my cousin, too. My heart aches for you.
Doris.......Canton, Ohio
Rocke Sweaney
December 16, 2014
I knew Doug since 2nd grade at Plain Center. Rode the same Jr. High School bus with him in 7th and 8th grade. Stopped by to visit with him on MiddleBranch a few times. Doug was a REALLY GREAT guy, and he WILL be missed. May he Rest In Peace in Heaven for All Eternity.
Ray Guardado
December 16, 2014
Met Nick when he was in high school,always a smile and so helpful when you needed help.My sympathies to all his family for your loss of this gentleman...God bless you all.
Tina Young
December 16, 2014
Doug and Gale are the most kind, caring, and generous people I have ever had the privilege and blessing to call my friends. My heart breaks for Gale and I will miss Doug's quick smile. God's light is shining on Him in eternal peace.
Lynn Baxter
December 16, 2014
Being transplants to Canton, we treasured Doug's help and friendship. He was our go-to man for all of our equipment. He was a caring person and will be greatly missed.
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Beth Burkett
December 16, 2014
My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time. He was a very kind and generous man.
Showing 1 - 32 of 32 results
Make a Donation
in Doug Nichols's name
Memorial Events
for Doug Nichols
Dec
19
Dec
20
How to support Doug's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Doug Nichols's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
