Solie Funeral Home & Cremetory
http://www.soliefunerals.com
Mike "The Hoof Trimmer" Nichols left us for greener pastures in the early morning hours of June 1, 2022. Loved and respected by family, friends and his longtime dairy and beef farm clients, his loss will be felt deeply, and he will always be remembered for his huge heart, rock-solid work ethic and generosity in spirit and deeds. He is now reunited in Heaven with his late wife Fran and their many beloved dogs, no doubt enjoying a cold Bloody Mary, a plate of nachos and a favorite John Wayne movie.
Michael Wayne Nichols was born to Austin and Dorothy Nichols in Lowell, MA on April 3, 1940. Preceded in death by his sister Diane, Mike was the adored and mischievous brother to sisters Kay, Charlene and Sue. The Nichols family moved to Snohomish, WA in 1953. Mike graduated from Snohomish High School in 1958. He proudly served his country, stationed in Korea in the United States Army Military Police.
Mike married Ellen Cassida in August 1962 and was proud father to Douglas (Kim), Robin and Rachel (JJ). His family made their home in Snohomish County and cultivated gardens, raised livestock and made lasting friendships over their years together. Mike and Ellen shared a love of antique treasures and enjoyed scouring the area for unique finds. Although parting ways later in life, Mike and Ellen held each other in mutual love, respect and friendship over the years.
In February 1995 Mike married Frances Murray and became "Papa" to Laura (Norman), Lisa (Greg), Stacey (Jean) and Suzanne (Victor). They made their home in Kitsap County in the picturesque town of Hansville. Together they fostered many senior dogs through Old Dog Haven and Rescue Every Dog. Their love of animals was second to none, and their lives were all the sweeter having these dogs in their care. Mike and Fran were faithful members of Hansville Community Church, making many friends over their years there. We said goodbye to Fran in 2019 and are grateful that Mike will be reunited with her.
Mike was proud grandpa to Veronica (Matt), Zachary (Julie), Shane (Lexi) and Levi, who sadly passed from this life in 1996. He was also happy to celebrate the recent 16th birthday of his great-grandson Aiden. After marrying Fran, Mike became bonus grandpa to Nick (Miranda), Josh (Jessica), Daniel, Aurora (Jaclynn), Zoe, Julianna, and great grandpa to Drake, Ryker, Addie, Attlee and Waylon.
Known to all as a hard-working man with unshakeable morals, values and faith in God, Mike founded Pacific Cascade Hoof Trimming and was a "Bovine Podiatrist" for over 40 years, serving dairy and beef farms up and down Western Washington and across Kitsap and Jefferson counties. He also provided care to unique hooved creatures such as llamas, goats and bison. He worked diligently at his craft up until the age of 82 and was always recognizable to many while driving his 1979 Ford F-150, affectionately known as "The Rock". Mike took his trade seriously, while at the same time establishing longtime friendships with the dairy and beef farmers and creatures he faithfully served. He was known for his love of a good day's work and caring for the animals with kindness and respect.
Mike will be laid to rest next to his beloved Frannie at Hansville Community Cemetery in a private family ceremony. A celebration of his life will be held on August 27th, 2022 at 11 AM at Dairyland, 12125 Treosti Rd, Snohomish, WA 98290.
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