William Mathew "Nick" NICKOLAY

Age 84 of St. Paul, MN Passed away peacefully on May 10, 2023 Survived by wife and caretaker extraordinaire JoAnn (née Halloran) of nearly 58 years; children, Carter Nickolay (Karen), Janell Nickolay (Shane), and Gwen Nickolay Traynor; grandchildren, Kara, Matthew (Kara), Brigid, and Ronan; siblings Lucille, Francis, George, and Ruth; numerous nieces, nephews, neighbors and friends. Nick was born July 13, 1938 in New Prague, MN, the youngest of 10 children. After graduating from New Prague High School in 1956, he joined the US Navy which brought him to Great Lakes, IL; Norman, OK; Memphis, TN; Guam; and San Diego, CA. He moved through the ranks from airman apprentice to jet plane captain and was honorably discharged in 1959. A self-made businessman, Nick's professional life was spent in sales and management with local and national motorcycle companies, most notably with Drag Specialties and Bell Industries. Given his easy-going personality, he could talk to executives and riders with equal regard which added to his notable charm and great success. In 1990, after years of dedicated work, he happily coasted into an early retirement. He was an avid billiards player who enjoyed entertaining anyone who dared to challenge him to a game of pool. His pool prowess only improved with great music and a cold beer. He enjoyed convertible cruises - the most with his first "baby" - his classic '67 Mustang, jigsaw puzzles, investing and financial spreadsheets, year-round daily walks, staying up-to-date with technology, his Highland Park neighbors and friends who afforded him the titles "Mayor of Yorkshire" and "Nick the Stick," and his family. In life and in death, Nick did things his way - with certainty and bravery. Given the Nickolay longevity, his goal was to see 93; we think he did perfectly well and are grateful for the gifts he gave us in his final month. While we miss his earthly presence, we rejoice in his faith that reunites him with his loved ones on the other side and restores him to the fullness of health in heaven. Predeceased by parents, John F. and Bessie Nickolay; and siblings John, Charles, Rita, Donald, and Richard. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11am Thursday, July 13 at Lumen Christi Catholic Community, 2055 Bohland Ave., St. Paul with visitation beginning at 10am. Mass will be livestreamed, https://lumenchristicc.online.church/ . Family burial at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Cemetery in New Prague. In lieu of flowers memorials preferred to the family. 651-698-0796