William “Bill” Anthony Nicklin passed away peacefully at his home in Douds, Iowa, on August 1, 2024, at the age of 73. Born on December 10, 1950, in Davis County, to Wendell E. And Dorothy M. Talley Nicklin.
Raised on the family farm along the border of Van Buren and Davis Counties, Bill’s early years were steeped in the values of hard work and community. A proud graduate of Davis County High School in 1968, he carried these values throughout his life. His commitment to service was evident when he joined the Army Reserves shortly after graduation and worked with REC on the line crew. Following his military service, Bill began a dedicated career with Rockwell in Fairfield, from which he retired in 2002. Retirement from Rockwell did not mean slowing down for Bill; he returned to his roots to farm full-time with his father until they sold the farm, allowing him to enjoy a well-deserved full retirement. Bill never really stopped, he drove the local Amish around until he was no longer able to drive.
Bill’s life was not just about work; it was also about love and companionship. He married Linda Murdock on June 30, 2002, at the Selma United Methodist Church. Together, they shared a passion for the outdoors, often riding four-wheelers and side-by-sides through the scenic trails of Colorado, Montana, and Idaho. Bill’s love for mechanics shone through in the hours he spent working in his shop, and his generosity was evident in his readiness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.
A man of habit and community, Bill enjoyed his morning coffee at the Douds Quick Shop, engaging with friends and staying up of local happenings. His presence was also a staple at Hy-Vee, where he caught up with former coworkers from Rockwell. Bill’s commitment to his community was further demonstrated through his active membership in the John Hyson Reneker Post No. 494, American Legion in Douds, and his devout involvement with the Christ United Methodist Church in Douds, the Selma United Methodist Church, and the Bethel Worship Center in Douds.
Bill’s memory will be forever held in the hearts of his beloved wife, Linda of Douds; his step-son, Ryan Horak (Cat) of Cedar Rapids; his stepdaughter, Brandie Metcalf (David) of Douds; his brothers, Mike Nicklin (Rebecca) of Boseman, MT, and Dan Nicklin of Ankeny; his sister, Marcia Nicklin (David Stern) of Italy; his four step-grandchildren, Nolan and Brinley Horak, CarryE and Daniel Metcalf; several nieces and nephews, extended family members and a community of friends who admired and respected him. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Wendell and Dorothy Talley Nicklin.
A celebration of Bill’s life will be held on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, at the Douds Community Center from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, where family and friends can gather to share stories and honor the memory of a man who touched so many lives. Memorials to the Good Samaritan Hospice of Ottumwa may be mailed to the family at 14022 Walnut Street, Douds, IA 52551. Friends and loved ones may express their condolences and share memories of Bill at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com.
