David Alan Nickell

David Alan Nickell, stalwart friend, inveterate golfer, renowned storyteller (in Dayton anyway), and father, passed away June 19th, 2020 after battling a short illness in much the same way he did everything in life, with great gusto and wit.

Dave or ‘Nick’ or David Alan (reserved for his mother and the wonderful women who were variously called upon throughout his long life to keep his humor in check) was born April 18th, 1943 to Herschel and Irene Nickell (Gose). Dave is preceded in death by his parents, his wife and best friend Cindy Ann Nickell(Stertzbach), and his brother Dale Nickell. He is survived by son George and daughters Emily (Mark Vanderputten) and Angela (Anthony Holzberg), stepson John Mounts (Michelle) and grandchildren Helen, Lewis, Pietra, Leo, George, Tyler, Sydney, and Mallory. Additionally, Dave is survived by his brother Dale’s children, niece Lynette Ogle (Nickell) and nephew Brett Nickell.

Born in Kingsport, Tennessee, Dave spent his early youth there and in West Liberty, Kentucky, near his mother’s family, with his brother Dale and his close friend and cousin, Richard Gose, knocking every puddle dry, as his beloved Aunt Dora often said. It was here, at a young age where Dave found his professional calling. After his first look at a shiny, new Cadillac, he told his mother then and there that his vocation would be the very same as the man driving the Cadillac: a preacher. Later, upon further consideration of the requisite piety of the calling, he decided on the next best thing: automotive sales - where he indeed made a lasting, professional career.

Quick with a story that was oftentimes not quick in the telling, Dave never missed an opportunity to make friends and loved ones laugh. His contagious laughter and broad smile lit up every room. He was a member of Sugar Valley Country Club where he perfected a golf game that was distinguished not for his long drives but for his advantageous handicap. Friends, family, and colleagues will miss his steadfast loyalty and honesty.

Due to the current pandemic and Dave’s well-known disdain of long condolence lines, a private service for immediate family only will be held on Friday, June 26, 2020 at 1 pm at Routsong Funeral Home, 2100 East Stroop Lane, Kettering, Ohio. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Dave’s name to the ALS Foundation (als.org) or in Dave and Cindy’s name to the American Cancer Foundation (cancer.org). Or at the least, Dad would have you enjoy a glass of your finest spirit and recount one of his favorite stories. A memorial for friends and family will occur at a later date.

Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.routsong.com.