Jerry Charles Nichols

Jerry Charles Nichols, age 81, of Battle Gro und, Washington, passed away peacefully on Good Friday, April 18, 2025, at Legacy Salmon Creek Hospital following a brief illness with pneumonia and subsequent sepsis.Born on February 18, 1944. in Altus, Arkansas, Jerry was the beloved son of David Walter Nichols and Crystal (Beckham) Nichols, During his early childhood, his family relocated to Vancouver, Washington, where his parents joined the workforce during the post-World War II era. They settled in the Heights neighborhood; a place Jerry remembered fondly for its close-knit community and abundance of playmates. He often spoke warmly of growing up there and the friendships that shaped his early years.Jerry attended grade school in the Heights area before moving on to Mcloughlin Junior High and graduating from Hudson's Bay High School with the class of 1963. He pursued higher education in drafting and engineering technology at Oregon Polytechnic, Portland State University, Clark College, and CAD Northwest. His professional career reflected both dedication and adaptability as he witnessed-and embraced-the evolution of engineering tools from slide rules to sophisticated AutoCAD systems. Jerry applied his skills at Swan Wooster, CH2M Hill, and the Public Utility District of Clark County.A pivotal moment in Jerry's life came when he met Kristeen Bauder at a dance hosted by Clark College. Their connection was immediate and end1uring. Eager to begin their life together, Jerry lovingly prepared their first home-painting it inside and out and furnishing it with care. They were married on August 21, 1971, at East Vancouver Methodist Church and .shared over five decades of marriage filled with love, laughter, and shared adventures.Jerry is survived by three children: Korey Winchell (Cherie), Nicholas Langland, and Misty Galofteanu. In 1992-93, they opened their hearts even wider by becoming foster parents to 17 children who brought joy and meaning into their home.Jerry had a passion for sports cars and spent countless hours restoring his prized vehicles-including two Austin Healey's, a 1955 Thunderbird, and a Porsche 91 IT. His enthusiasm for activity extended beyond the garage; he enjoyed playing co-ed baseball, racquetball, volleyball with Kris by his side, and occasional rounds of golf with close friends Bill Rauch, Dean Hergesheimer, and Dick Krause. He also found joy in coaching youth sports such as T-ball, softball, and soccer.He and Kris were members of Vancouver Vineyard Church. A cherished memory was his baptism in the Lewis River during a church picnic.Jerry was preceded in death by his father David Walter Nichols; mother Crystal Nichols; sister Pat Bagger; brother-in-law Harvey Bagger; father-in-1iliw Harold F. Bauder Sr.; mother-in-law Dorothy Bauder; and sisterin-law Linda Jane Bauder.He is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 54 years, Kristeen Nichols; sons Korey Winchell (Cherie) and Nicholas Langland: daughter Misty Galofteanu; sister Lou Ann Smith (Terry); brothers-in-law Harold F. Bauder Jr., John C. Bauder (Cathy): six nieces Diane St. Clair (Alice), Debbie Sundberg, Daphane Michaels, Dawn Sherrard, Darlene Medina (Mark). Rachelle Lester (Eli); three nephews Dan Bagg-er (Carol), Sam Bauder (Melissa), Ryan Bauder: as well as nine grandchildren.Jerry Charles Nichols will be remembered for his warmth, dedication to family and community, love of classic cars and sportsmanship-and most of all-for the enduring love he shared with Kris. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him. A Funeral Service will be held on May 31. 2025, from 12:30 PM to 01:30 PM at Evergreen Memorial Gardens 1101 N.E. I 12th Avenue Vancouver, Washington 98684. Everyone is invited to share a time together in the Hospitality Room from I :30-3:30.

Jerry Charles Nichols

February 18, 1944 - April 18, 2025