Charles Eugene Nichols

Charles Eugene Nichols, 69, of Houstonia, passed away Sunday, July 14, 2024 at Fitzgibbon Hospital in Marshall.

He was born November 27, 1954, in Fairfax, a son of the late Charles Nichols and Pauline (McClanahan) Bear. On November 25, 1980, he married Penny Shaw, who survives of the home.

Charles was a 1972 graduate of Sweet Springs High School. He entered the US Army right after graduation and served his country honorably for a total of 14 years. 

He was a man of many interests, talents and hobbies which led him to working several jobs throughout his working career. He loved working as an X-ray technician. As an over the road truck driver, he was able to enjoy many areas of the country. (Some of his other favorite travel destinations were Dubai and Las Vegas.) He and his wife, Penny, owned and operated The Bear’s Den and The Blue Gator in Sedalia. He did extensive remodeling to the property before opening the business. They later owned and operated The Mason Jar in Downtown Sedalia. He enjoyed running the businesses and eating the tasty food.

Charles loved animals, especially his dog, Izzy. He enjoyed watching television, YouTube and his cell phone.

In addition to his wife, Penny, survivors include two children, Char Klein (Curt Martin), of Moberly and Charles Nichols (Heather Bennet), of Marshall; a sister, Charlotte Clark (Gary), of Green Top; six grandchildren, Seth Cooper, William Wirtz, Colton Bosley, Jacqueline Klein, Levi Klein and Patience Nichols; and great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two siblings, Ronald Sybrant and Pat Clinkenbeard; and two stepdaughters, Ronni Blackerby and Bobbi Bosley.

Visitation and sharing memories will be 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm Thursday, July 18, 2024 at the Heckart Family Center, 915 South Ohio, Sedalia. Full military honors will be conducted at 3:00 pm. 

Burial will be at a later date in Sunset Memorial Gardens in Marshall.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the family with checks made payable to Penny Nichols.

Arrangements are under the direction of Heckart Funeral Home.