John D. Nichols was born in Kansas City, KS on December 22, 1955. He graduated from Abilene High School in 1974. He then went to North Central Kansas Area Vocational-Technical School and got his diploma in heavy equipment operations in 1979. He worked a variety of jobs and ended up with Performance Construction Ink and Labor Union 1290 for more than 20 years, until his retirement in 2011. John was a fun loving man who was loved by many. He was extremely proud of his sobriety and was active in AA for the last 35 years of his life. He attended meetings, sponsored members, and actively supported individuals seeking to begin sobriety and new lives by welcoming them into his home to get them started on the right path. Many have been quoted saying that John "saved his/her life. " He believed in giving back and was a role model for many including his kids and grandson. John had two children, John P. Nichols and Lindsey M. Nichols. He was preceded in death by his daughter Lindsey, but has continued to feel a close connection to her spirit. His son John Paul and grandson John William were his pride and joy. He loved spending time with them, having root beer floats, and supporting their dreams. He introduced his son to magic and was a huge supporter of his grandson's athletic accomplishments. He was a passionate man and went "all in" with all that he did, including his gardening. Everyone commented on how amazing his veggies looked and we all know he kept many secrets on how to get the dirt "just right. " He loved spicy food and even grew his own ghost peppers that he infamously just bit into. His zest, charisma, and love of life threw him into the community, developing relationships with any person he encountered. He was strong willed, courageous and will be admired for all the good things he did for others throughout his life; instilling hope that we can all excel in our journey. His journey ended on April 29th, 2023 with family and loved ones around him. He was preceded in death by his mother, Janine Rittel; father, John R. Nichols; step-father Jerry Rittel; daughter, Lindsey Nichols. He leaves behind his son, John P. Nichols; grandson, John W. Nichols; sister, Diana Verble; brother, Scott Nichols; brother, Jeff Nichols; sister, Bonnie Kelly; brother, Jay Rittel; girlfriend, Gretchen Murray. Celebration of Life for John D. Nichols will be held from 6:00-8:00 pm on Monday May 15, 2023 at WyCo Lake Beach Shelter, 3488 East Dr. Kansas City, KS 66109. From 6-7pm will be a visitation with a service directly following at 7:00pm. Celebration Of Life 05/15/2023 6:00 PM WyCo Lake Beach Shelter 3488 E. Dr. Kansas City, KS 66109