Ralph Irwin Nichols, 93, died December 19, 2019.  He was born in Ft. Wayne on August 12, 1926 to the late Forrest & Leona Nichols.  After graduating from Northside High School, Ralph enlisted in the Navy and served during WWII.  He then enjoyed many years of employment at International Harvester and later enjoyed his retirement even more.

Ralph had an inventor's heart with a unique ability to look at a picture in a magazine and transform it into reality.  He enjoyed fixing and building things. On breaks, you could find him with 'his hand in the cookie jar'.  He was of a cheerful spirit with a quick smile, sweet, and a joy to be in his company.

Ralph is survived by children, Sue Ann (Chuck) Simpson, Dawson Springs, KY, Debra Nichols, Colorado Springs, CO, Sharon (Jim) Cordova, Encinitas, CA, Steven Nichols, Roanoke, IN; 7 grandchildren, Leslie (Gorka), Curtis (Manaho), Anthony, Jesse, Eric, Amy, & Justin; 3 great-grandchildren, Uxue, Alaia, Oihane; sisters-in-law, Jan Schey and Doris Closson; and dear friend, Liz Lydy.

Ralph was preceded in death by his wife of 64 years, Jackie and 14-month old son, Larry.

Service is 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, Dec 31, 2019 at Covington Funeral Home, 8408 Covington Road, with calling 30 minutes prior. Officiating will be Pastor James Bachman.   Calling is also 4-6 p.m., Monday, Dec 30, 2019, at the funeral home.  He will be laid to rest at Greenlawn Memorial Park.