Frank Herbert Nickel, Jr.

Frank Herbert Nickel, Jr., age 89, of Wilmington, DE, passed away peacefully after a brief illness, with his children by his side, on Sunday, January 26, 2025.

He was born in Hicksville, NY, son of the late Frank Sr. and Dorothy (Anderson) Nickel. Herb was a graduate of the University of Delaware, where he wrestled and completed his degree at age 19. He went on to enjoy a 45-plus year career as a chemical engineer, working at the Delaware City Refinery.

Herb was a 50-year member of the Wilmington YMCA and was an accomplished powerlifter when he was younger. He coached for several years at Midway Little League and had a special place in his heart for Dewey Beach, attending jam session at the Bottle & Cork up through the twilight years of his life. Herb was also a man of deep faith; was a dedicated member of St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church, and was very charitable and gracious with his time. He volunteered with Meals on Wheels, the Emmanuel Dining Room, and had an affinity for helping animals through various local shelters.

Herb is survived by his children, Mary Kaye Nickel, and Frank Nickel III (Arin); his granddaughter, Karis; and his granddogs, Little Guy and Jasper.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Maryella; and his sister, Dorothy Bratt.

A funeral service will be celebrated at 11:30am on Friday, February 7, 2025, at the Doherty Funeral Home, 3200 Limestone Road, Wilmington, DE, 19808, where family and friends may visit beginning at 10:00am. Interment will be held in All Saints Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Herb’s memory may be made to Meals on Wheels; the Emmanuel Dining Room; Humane Animal Partners; or St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church.

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