James "Jim" Nickiel, 89 years young, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, December 4, 2024. Jim was born to George and Hattie (Januczeuski) Nickiel on February 1, 1935, in Oconto Falls.

After graduating from Pulaski High School in 1953, he worked at Crystal Print and Krueger Metal, then worked with Joe Kasper in construction. After enlisting in the Army in 1955, he trained in and then taught radar until 1958. After leaving the Army, he was employed at Frey's TV in Green Bay for 20 years as a TV repairman. A blind date was arranged for Jim with Rose Draus in March 1960. They were married on August 26, 1961, at S.S. Edward and Isadore in Flintville. After their first years living in the Flintville area, they moved to Green Bay. They farmed briefly in South Chase from 1969-1971 before returning to Green Bay. They became active members of Annunciation Parish, helping with picnics and other events. Jim continued to work repairing TVs, stereos, and VCRs, with Frey's TV and then with Gilliam TV, before retiring sometime after 1999. He was a do-it-yourselfer, fixing up the homes in which they lived. He dabbled in ham radio in the early 70s (WB9NPH), hunted and trapped, and enjoyed fishing (including trips to Canada), playing cards with his friends, playing chess with the Chess Club, and gardening (including starting his own plants from seed). He also collected music and watched the Packers. He was well known for his sense of humor. Jim and Rose also appreciated cultural diversity (they even hosted two Japanese women for People-to-People back in the 70s), and they welcomed a variety of people to their home.

He is survived by his wife, Rose; daughter, Julie (Dean) Brink; grandchildren, Anne (Zechariah) Stuedemann, Dan Brink, David Brink, Debbie (fiancé, Jessup Rolfs) Brink, and Ruth Brink.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, and by his daughter, Jackie.

Friends and family will gather at St. Jude Parish, 1420 Division St., from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM on Saturday, December 21; Mass to follow at 11:00 AM. To send online condolences, please go to www.BlaneyFuneralHome.com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to a charity of your choice! Also, share a favorite joke with a stranger...Jim enjoyed brightening anyone's day!