Tom Albert Nickels, age 85, entered into heaven on Tuesday, June 20, 2023. He was born on December 11, 1937 in El Toro, Texas. After graduating as a proud Edna Cowboy in 1956, Tom joined the Navy. While stationed in Albuquerque, he met the love of his life, Pat. They were married in 1958. After serving in San Diego, Honolulu and Corpus Christi, Tom, Pat and daughter, Cindy, made Houston their home. Proud to be a “girl dad”, Tom was delighted when Linda and Carolyn completed the family.
Tom was very proud of his sons-in-law, Roy and Lowell, who have been dedicated and loving additions to the family. He was overjoyed with the addition of his grandchildren. His favorite title was that of “Grandpa.” Being a great grandpa to Evan Apollo was a highlight of his life.
Tom attended the University of Houston and worked numerous jobs to support his growing family. His successful career included 17 years with the Igloo Corporation, beginning as assistant purchasing agent. Tom found his true calling in sales and worked tirelessly to help grow the company and became the Executive Vice President of Igloo. Tom also spent 17 years as President of Royal Whirlpool Baths where he used his expertise of sales and manufacturing to expand the small Houston bathtub shop into a prosperous national company.
Tom’s greatest joy was spending time with his family. Tom will forever be remembered for his ability to sacrifice, his strong work ethic, his generosity and integrity, in addition to his support and devotion to his beloved family.
Tom is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Pat; mother, Lillie Nickels Blahuta; father Louis Nickels; sister Margaret Johnston and her husband Toby; and brother Louis Nickels Jr. He is survived by his devoted daughters, Cindy Sprague and her husband Roy, Linda Nickels, and Carolyn Little and her husband Lowell; grandchildren Tommy Sprague and his wife Samantha, Michael Sprague and his wife Angela, Jackson Little and his wife Marissa, Faith Davis and her husband Grant; and great grandson, Evan Apollo Sprague.
A Mass of Christian Burial was held at Christ the Redeemer Catholic Church on June 27, 2023.
The Nickels family request memorial gifts in Tom’s honor be made to the Cy-Fair Educational Foundation (CFEF), P.O. Box 1698, Cypress, TX 77410-1698, or made online at thecfef.org.
Guest Book
Sign Guestbook