Gerald “Jerry” Huldreich Nickel, age 80, of San Antonio, Texas, passed away on August 3rd, 2026. Jerry was born on January 13th, 1946, in Hillsboro, Kansas, to Huldreich and Sarah Nickel. He graduated from Hillsboro High School and went on to receive his master’s degree in education.
Jerry was drafted into the Vietnam War on August 27, 1968, and served in the 1st
Battalion, 46th Infantry, 196th Infantry Brigade until he was relieved from active duty on March 28, 1970. He remained in the reserves until his honorable discharge on August 1, 1974. During his time in Vietnam, he received numerous awards, including the Army Commendation Medal with the “V” device for heroism and meritorious service.
He spent 28 years as an elementary school teacher, devoting his career to educating and encouraging young children in Shawnee Mission, Kansas, spending all 28 years at Nieman Elementary where he retired in 2000. He made an impact by inspiring countless students with patience, kindness, and belief in their potential. After his retirement, he found joy in spending time with his wife, his friends and family, and with his many cats.
Above all, Jerry was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, loyal brother and friend. He will be remembered for his kindness, strong work ethic, and sense of humor.
Jerry is survived by his second wife (name and family removed for privacy); his four children from his first wife Janice; Brian (Tara) Nickel, Alicia Tangeman, Lori (Josh) Failes, and Allison (Jeff) Roberts; grandchildren including Kristen and Kiera Tangeman, Addison and Avery Failes, Taylor and Brayden Nickel, Levi, Liam and Leah Roberts; his brother Clifford Nickel, and other family and friends, all of whom will forever carry his memory with love. He was preceded in death by his parents Huldreich and Sarah Nickel, his brother Robert Nickel, and his sister Jeanette McMinn.
A celebration of life was held on Saturday, August 15th, 2026, at 10:30am, at Arden Road Baptist Church in Amarillo, TX, where family gathered to share memories to honor Jerry’s life.
A Military ceremony will take place August 31st at 10:15am at Fort Sam Houston National cemetery in San Antonio Texas to honor Jerry’s life and service to his country.
He brought warmth to every room, and his absence leaves a space that cannot be filled. He will be remembered for his legacy of kindness, service, and quiet strength.
