NICHOLS, Donald Ellsworth

Published by Arizona Daily Sun on May 30, 2021 - Flagstaff, Arizona - Donald Ellsworth Nichols, 85, of Flagstaff, Arizona passed peacefully at his home on May 6, 2021 surrounded by loved ones. Don, a lifelong Arizona resident, was born June 4, 1935 in Phoenix, Arizona to Ellsworth and Jessie Nichols becoming the oldest of 4 siblings. The family moved several times in his childhood and ultimately settled in Yuma in 1946. After graduating from Yuma Union High School in 1953, Don worked at Yuma Stationers until saving enough money to attend Arizona State College in Tempe (now ASU). Don was drafted in 1957 and spent 21 months in the U.S. Army. After his discharge, Don moved to Flagstaff working part-time for PBSW Supply and Equipment Company and attended Arizona State College at Flagstaff (now NAU). 2 1/2 years later Don graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Finance and continued to work for PBSW. In May 1972 Don became a State Farm Insurance agent where he worked 25 years until retiring in March 1996. The last 25 years of his life were spent enjoying the outdoors, spending time with family and friends and taking frequent trips to Laughlin and other local casinos. Don never met a stranger and was known for his impeccable memory and storytelling. He was an avid outdoorsman and passionate about hunting. It was nearly impossible to have a casual conversation with him and not hear a story about his past or planned outdoor adventures. Don is survived by his daughter Julie and sons Michael and David. A Celebration of Life service will be held at the Flagstaff ELKS Lodge Saturday June 12, 2021 at 4:00 PM. The family welcomes anyone wanting to attend and share their memories of Don.