Frank Nick Nichols
What do you remember about Frank? Share your stories and photos here, and invite others to come share their memories.
Frank N. Nichols, Former Aerospace Executive, Dies at 81
Frank Nichols, who built a successful 43-year career with the Parker Hannifin Corporation Aerospace Group, a global leader in motion and control technologies, died on Friday, August 5. He was 81.
Frank was born September 1, 1940, in Cleveland, Ohio to Nick and Celia Nichols, owners of the Nichols Flower shop which was founded in 1898 by his grandparents in The Arcade Cleveland, an historic landmark in downtown Cleveland.
Frank received a Bachelor of Science degree in economics and marketing from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He proudly watched both his daughter and son graduate from his beloved UNC. He served in the United States Air Force and the National Guard.
Over the span of his years at Parker Hannifin, Frank had an innate talent for identifying future leaders and a unique ability to translate the skills, experiences, and communications styles required for his team to succeed and advance in their careers; he is remembered fondly for this. Frank was a member of the board of directors of the Ohio Aerospace Council and Sifco, Inc., a Cleveland based forging company. He also served on the board of trustees of GAMA - the General Aviation Manufacturing Association.
He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Joan (nee Jaksa), daughter Nicole, son Frank and daughter-in-law Elizabeth, granddaughters Amelia, Libby, Charlotte and Clara, sisters Barbara Alexander and Patricia Holtvoigt.
In 2020, Frank and Joan moved from Ohio to Marietta, Georgia and joyously shared the last years of his life with their children and grandchildren. He passed peacefully at home with his family by his side. A celebration of Frank's life is planned for 2023. Remembrances may be made in his honor to the Salvation Army Marietta Corps or the Tunnels to Towers Foundation. Godspeed, Frank Nichols.
Carmichael Funeral Home in Smyrna is in charge of arrangements. www.carmichaelcares.com 770-435-4467