Ralph Andy Nickelson's Obituary
On Monday, August 26, 2019 Ralph A. Nickelson, loving husband, father, grandfather (11), great-grandfather (16), and great-great-grandfather (2), passed away at the age of 90.
Ralph was born on January 20, 1929 in Coldwater, Kansas to Chris and Hazel (Clovis) Nickelson. At the age of 10 the family of 8 packed up and moved to Oregon. Ralph left school his junior year of high school to start working at the Deer Island Ranch as a cowboy to help support his parents. Around the age of 20 he started work at Boise Cascade, and was there for 35 years.
Ralph met Delores Miller and it was love at first site in 1950, and after 3 months they were married. Ralph enjoyed being with his family, clam digging, fishing, rebuilding old cars, logging, riding his bike 15 miles a day and taking trips with his dear friends. He loved staying busy and tinkering around. Ralph was also a member of the Masonic Lodge for 50 years.
Ralph is preceded in death by his loving wife Delores of 62 years, and his grandson Spike (Dennis Schmit 44).
He is survived by his children, Bella Nickelson, Bonnie Webberley (Ron), David Nickelson, Terri (Shawn Williams) and Cathie (Dave Scrviner); sister Agatha Cobb, and many nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Legacy Hopewell House, 6171 SW Capitol Hwy, Portland, OR, 97239.
Services for Ralph Nickelson will be held at Columbia Funeral Home, Friday, September 6, 2019, with a viewing to start at 12:00pm, followed by a Funeral Service at 1:00pm. Please sign our online guestbook at www.columbiafh.com
What’s your fondest memory of Ralph?
What’s a lesson you learned from Ralph?
Share a story where Ralph's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Ralph you’ll never forget.
How did Ralph make you smile?