FuNERAL SERVICE

Zion Church of God in Christ, Mennonite Inman, Kansas

Monday, March 19,2012, at 10:30 AM

OFFICIATING MINISTERS

Maynard Koehn Gregg Johnson Karl Ensz

SPECIAL MUSIC

Zion Church Choir

CASKETBEARERS

Tim Nikkel LaRon Nikkel Marlin Wadel John Wadel Jerrold Toews Les Toews

Ushers Allen Isaac Duane Martens Troy Koehn Duane Johnson

INTERMENT

Zion Church Cemetery Inman, Kansas

MEMORIAL DONATIONS

The family suggests that memorial donations be given to Mercy Hospital in loving memory of Abe.

APPRECIATION

On behalf of the family, we wish to express their sincere appreciation for all your kindnesses, evidenced in thought and deed, and for your presence at this service.

Stockham Family Funeral Home

AB.E E. NIKKEL OCTOBER 28, 1918 - MARCH 15,2012

I:JM. 'tt IY beloved husband, our Father, Grandfather, and .., ," Great-Grandfather, Abe E Nikkel, was born to

, ". Peter M. and Kathryn (Ensz) Nikkel on October 28, 1918, near Hillsboro, KS. He peacefully

passed on to his eternal reward on March 15,2012, at Mercy Hospital, Moundridge KS. He had reached the age of 93 years.

When he was a child of two years, he moved with his parents to the Inman community, where he grew to manhood. He received his education at the Grove School, northwest of Inman. While a young man, Dad felt the call to Salvation, experiencing the new birth. He was baptized on December 23, 1934, into the Church of God in Christ, Mennonite by Minister C. L. Gearig. He remained faithful to his vows until the end, leaving us a clear assurance of salvation.

On November 23, 1941, he was united in marriage to Annie Friesen at Inman, KS. They established their first home at Conway, KS. Later, they moved to a farm near Inman where they raised their family. They shared 43 happy years together and were blessed with one son and two daughters. Many memories were made as Dad taught us good work ethics. Dad enjoyed farming, and was industrious, hardworking, and not one to put things off. He loved singing and enjoyed teaching the rudiments of music to us children and the congregation. Their home was blessed with the joy of hospitality and was enjoyed by many loved ones and friends.

On December 3, 1961, Dad was ordained to the gospel ministry. He carried a deep love and concern for the souls of men and willingly gave himself to ministering to their needs. He had a clear vision of the Church and her doctrines, earnestly contending for the faith.

In 1978, they answered the call of the church and spent a number of years serving as missionaries in Nigeria. They enjoyed their time there and dearly loved the people as they worked together. continued---+---+---+

After Mother passed away, Dad was often lonely. On June 9, 1985, Dad married Delma Friesen, sharing 26 wonderful years together. Together they spent many hours in his woodworking shop, making many memorable keepsakes for us and others. The grandchildren loved to go to Grandpa's house, enjoying the toys he made for them. In later years, he loved hearing them sing and having them come visit at their house.

In later years, they were privileged to be able to help in ministering to the needs of several newer congregations, also spending several months in India.

Dad often encouraged us to be faithful, ending the day with family devotions. Dad often expressed his love for us. In his last days, he made final preparations to go to his Heavenly Home. He often turned to the Lord in prayer, enjoying a close walk with God.

Those left to cherish fond memories are: his wife, Delma, one son Lavern and wife, Ruth, of Inman; two daughters, Bertha and husband, William Wadel, of Farmington, KY, and Irene and husband, Percy Toews, of McPherson, KS; 14 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren and one great-great grandson; a brother, Jona Nikkel and wife, Diana, of Greenville, NC; a sister, Margaret Friesen, of Moundridge, KS; two brothers-in-law, Frank Giesbrecht and Harvey Becker of Stapleton, GA, and a sister-in-law, Dorothy Wedel of Moundridge, KS.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Annie, his parents, a brother, Irvin, sisters, Lena, Edna, Elda, and Darlene, a grandson and a great-granddaughter.

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