Harold Gene Nichols

Harold Gene Nichols, 89, of Claremore, OK passed away on August 24, 2023.

He was born on August 21, 1934, in Clarita, OK the son of Andrew “Pete” and Estelle (Dollins) Nichols. Harold joined the US Air Force upon graduation from Southside High School in Hess, OK. He trained as an airframe mechanic and worked his way into being an instructor for the same training program. This took Harold into multiple overseas tours where he served in countries such as England, Germany, and France. Harold served for 12 years in the Air Force and an additional 23 years in the Civil Service at Altus Air Force Base where he served as the Transient Alert Foreman. Always the leader, this role served Harold well. Harold served God with passion through his 89 years. He was an ordained deacon and served as church treasurer and taught his men’s group while setting a good example to his family, friends, and others through his steadfast Christian life. While based in Amarillo, TX, Harold met his future wife, Marion Walker. He and Marion fulfilled their vows to each other for 68 years before Harold succumbed to Alzheimers. Together, they were blessed with 4 beautiful daughters, Diana Lynn, Terri Elaine, Patricia Ann, and Janice Lea before being surprised 10 years later with their fifth child, Glenn David. Harold loved spending time with his family, tinkering on cars, carpentry, camping, and loved his boats and tossing horseshoes every chance he got.

Harold was proceeded in death by both parents and his step-father, Groff Evans; brother Gary Wayne Nichols, two daughters Patricia Ann Colston and Janice Lea Nichols.

Left behind to cherish his memory is his wife of 68 years Marion Nichols of Claremore; daughters Diana Thurmond and husband Raymond of Altus OK, Terri Houdek and husband John of Owasso OK; a son Glenn Nichols and wife Stacy of Claremore OK; grandchildren, Mitzi Flynn and husband Jonathan, Rachel Colston, Steven Houdek and wife Erica, Daniel Houdek, Matt Thurmond and wife Micah, Reese Thurmond and wife Katy, Brandon Wyatt, Eric Wyatt and wife Faith, Bradi Hulse and husband Mitch, and Andrew Nichols; 17 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.