Saint Elmo

Nickols Jr

Devoted husband, loving father, rancher and retired IBM engineer Saint Elmo "Nick" Nickols passed on May 17, 2024, surrounded by family and loved ones who will continue to honor his legacy.

Nick's remarkable intelligence and resilient sense of humor gave him an astounding ability to persevere through life's challenges and to guide, support and protect his family throughout his life.

Nick volunteered to serve his country in the US Army as member of the 101st Airborne immediately after high school in 1955.  During his service he pursued his education in material science and mechanical engineering.  Nick was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army in 1963 and began his career as an engineer.  That same year Nick completed an apprenticeship training as a Tool and Dye maker with Delmo Victor.  Shortly after his apprenticeship, he was hired by IBM as an Engineer working alongside the brightest minds in silicon valley to develop IBM's cutting edge computer processing systems.   Nick was a passionate inventor and was honored by IBM for his creative and groundbreaking contributions to IBM's progress.  After over 25 years with IBM, Nick "retired" to cattle ranching.

In retirement, Nick found immense joy in running a cattle ranch with his wife Esther and spending time with his children.  Nick never stopped learning and teaching his children about the innovations changing our world.  He remained a constant and faithful confidant to his friends throughout his entire life, calling them regularly and staying involved in their lives.

He was an active member of the Sacred Heart Parish.  Nick volunteered as a Eucharistic minister with his wife Esther and volunteered for yard duty at Sacred Heart while his daughter was enrolled there.

Nick was known for his vast, deep knowledge and quick wit that enriched the lives of everyone who knew him.

Nick is survived by his loving wife Esther, a son Nick, a son David, a daughter Alyson, grandchildren David Jr. and Chaylene, a great grandchild Alina, and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

A funeral mass will be held on May 24, 2024 at St. Benedict's Church at 1200 Fairview Rd., Hollister, CA 95023 followed by a Celebration of life at Ridgemark Country Club at 3800 Airline Hwy., Hollister CA 95023.