Ronald L. Nickell, 65, of Rochester passed away on Thursday, August 5, 2021 at his residence.
On October 1, 1955, Ronald Lee was born in Rochester to Harvey and Vandetta P. Melton Nickell. Growing up he shared his childhood with an older brother, Richard. Ron was a member of the Rochester High School class of 1974.
Answering the call of patriotism, Ron served our country with the United States Navy. During his stint with the Navy he was a crew member of the USS Enterprise and the USS Ranger.
On August 11, 1983, Ron married the love of his life, Miss Tina Renee Refitt in Rochester. They shared 37 years of life’s adventures. Their union produced beautiful two daughters, Melissa and Alisha. Two more generations have been added to the family tree with the blessings of seven grandchildren and a great-grandson. Sadly, she passed away on September 2, 2020.
With a strong work ethic, Ron worked in the RV home industry for nearly four decades. He worked for Greyhound Luxury Bus. More recently Ron worked for Farimount/Gulfstream Coach where he earned a perfect attendance award for his dedicated service of 10 continuous years.
To relax, Ron enjoyed taking Tina cruising around on day trips on his Honda Black Shadow. They were affectionately known as Hog and Hogette by their best riding buddies. An extraordinary woodworker, Ron made many unique creations for his family to use in their homes. With an ice-cold Bud in hand, Ron enjoyed cheering for the Indy Colts and NASCAR's the Earnhardt's Sr. & Jr.
Papa Ron was so very proud to oversee four generations. He looked forward to the holidays and special family celebrations making memories and being with the grands and now with his great-grand Kingston.
Left to cherish Ron's memory are two daughters: Melissa Lett and husband Eric of Rochester, Alisha Miller and husband Justin of Lafayette; seven grandchildren: Alexis Nolen, Owen Lett, Jordan Lett, Kelton Lett, Arianna McKee, Layney Miller, Caiden Miller, a great-grandson Kingston Allen Laird; several nieces and nephews and his treasured feline companions Winston and Boomer, the orange tabbies.
Preceding Ron in death are his parents, wife, Tina, brother Richard, “Rick” Nickell and son-in-law Travis Nolen.
A celebration of the life of Mr. Ronald L. Nickell will be at 3:30 PM on Monday, August 9, 2021 in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th St., Rochester.
Friends may visit with the family from 1:30 ~ 3:30 PM on Monday in the funeral home. Pastor Mike VanHeyningen will officiate.
Military Honors will be conducted by the Fulton County Veterans Honor Guard and the US Navy Honors Team.
Interment will be in the Rochester IOOF Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the Fulton County Cancer Fund through the Northern Indiana Community Foundation, 227 E. 9th St., Rochester, IN 46975.
Electronic expressions of sympathy may be made to his family at www.goodfamilyfh.com.
