NICHOLS, William Eugene

Mohave Daily News, Mohave Valley, Arizona - Published in Mohave Daily News Online from February 2 to February 9, 2011 - William Eugene "Gene" Nichols, age 80, a 4-year resident of Bullhead City, Ariz., and previously a long-time resident of Sacramento, Calif., passed away at home on January 29, 2011, after losing his battle with cancer. Gene was surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Tulare, Calif., on December 12, 1930, to Hugh and Lillian Nichols. Gene served in the U.S. Navy from 1947-1952 on the USS Boxer. After returning from the Navy, he completed his painting apprenticeship in Sacramento, Calif. Shortly thereafter, and for several years, he operated Nichols and Mathews Painting and Decorating with his friend and business partner, Jerry. He was also active in the California Horse Racing Association. Gene will be greatly missed. Gene was preceded in death by his son, Greg; mother, Lillian Beck; father, Hugh Nichols; step-father, Bob Beck; brother, Everett; and great-granddaughter, Olivia. Gene is survived by son, Scott Nichols and daughter, Cheryl Busch of Sacramento, Calif., and daughters, Colleen (Rick) Southey and Lisa Dallman of Bullhead City, Ariz.; eight grandchildren, Larry Bousquet of Lake Havasu City, Brandi Bousquet and Nicholas Bousquet of Bullhead City, Austin Southey of Bullhead City, Chase Nichols and Tosha Nichols of Sacramento, Alexandria Dallman and Erica Dallman of Bullhead City; four great-grandchildren, Madeline of Lake Havasu City and Hallie, Bailey and Tanner of Bullhead City; sister, Nanette of Fresno, Calif.; two brothers, Ron of Las Vegas, Nev., and Richard of Costa Rica; and lifelong friends Jerry and Barbara Mathews. Honoring Gene's request, no service will be held. There will be a "Celebration of Life" at a later date. Donations in the memory of Gene Nichols can be made to Hospice of Havasu, 2767 Silver Creek Road, Bullhead City, AZ 86442.