George W. Nichols, 72

Blue Earth — George Winston Nichols, age 72, died Nov. 4, 2008, at his home after battling a rare blood disease called Myelofibrosis. George has generously donated his body to Mayo Clinic. Memorial Services were held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2008, at Patton Funeral Home, 400 E. 14th Street, Blue Earth.

He was born on July 25, 1936, to Paul A. and Winnie (Kray) Nichols. He was raised on the family farm in Verona Township and graduated from Blue Earth High school in 1954. George married Patricia Lund in 1955 and they had five children together. George worked for Bartley Printing in Blue Earth for 31 years and later for Blue Earth Graphics for four years until retiring in 1998. George married Wanda Toppin in 1981. He enjoyed golfing and was a member of Riverside Country Club. George had a beautiful voice and sang with the Harmony Junction Barbershop Chorus for many years.

George is survived by his wife, Wanda, children: Paul Nichols of Winnebago, Ron (Barb) Nichols of Winnebago, Linda (Tonn) Herschberger of Blue Earth, Donna Nichols of Winnebago, Laurie (Dave) Langford of Winnebago, step-sons: Ron (Cindy) Toppin of Hastings, Bob (Mary Jo) Toppin of Hastings, Rick (Katie) Toppin of Plymouth, a brother, Harold Nichols of Winnebago, 11 grandchildren, six step-grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one grandson.

Memorials are preferred to the United Hands Hospice of Blue Earth.

Web tributes may be left for the family at www.pattonfh.com