Neil Earl Nichols

Neil Earl Nichols age 85, of South Lyon, passed away on September 15, 2015. He was born on October 15, 1929 in Clayton, Georgia; son of Estel and Lela Nichols. He was united in marriage to Annie Allan on November 5, 1955; they were planning a 60th Anniversary party for this November. He proudly served in the United States Navy during the Korean War. Neil lived in South Lyon for 25 years; he was previously of Northville. For over 20 years he wintered in Nokomis, Florida. He was the Special Projects Manager for General Motors Proving Grounds; retiring in 1994 after 38 years of dedicated service. He was an active member of Cross of Christ Lutheran Church. Neil was a very motivated and hardworking man. He loved to mow lawns and complete projects in a timely manner. He enjoyed woodworking and construction; he built his home in Northville while working full time and helping raise his family. He had an incredible talent for fixing anything. Neil was a very loving and devoted husband, a fantastic father, and the greatest grandfather. He is survived by his beloved wife Annie Allan Nichols; his devoted sons Neil A. Nichols and Eric T. (Lanette) Nichols; his grandsons Nicholas (Sascha), Michael (Alli) and Jonathan (Nichole) Zurek; his great grandchildren Matthew, Daniel, Gavin, and Scarlett Zurek; his step-great grandchildren McKenna, Jason, and Kaylie Ellis; his brothers Denver, Donald, Lloyd and Daniel Nichols; and his sister Sharon Sloan. He was preceded in death by his daughter Lynn Ann Zurek, his granddaughter Victoria Faith Nichols, his brothers Clyde, Charles, and Dewey Nichols, and his sister Monteen Thompson. Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 17, 2015 from 2-8pm at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 West Dunlap, Northville. The funeral service will be held Friday, September 18, 2015 at 11am with visitation beginning at 10am at Cross of Christ Lutheran Church, 24155 Griswold, South Lyon, MI 48178. Burial will be held on Tuesday, September 22, 2015 at 11:30am at Great Lakes National Cemetery, 4200 Belford Road in Holly. Memorial contributions would be appreciated to Cross of Christ Lutheran Church.