Nickel, Joan M.

Joan Nickel entered into eternal rest on December 16, 2025, at the age of 91. She was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in a home rich not in wealth, but in the values of love, faith, hard work, humor, and kindness which became the foundation of the rest of her life. Joan was raised by her parents, Leo and Clara, alongside her three sisters: Rita, Doris, and Mary.  

Joan embodied these values every day of her life, building a sense of community wherever she went. She cherished her husband, children, and extended family—especially her grandchildren—and her greatest joy came from simply being with them. She treasured every game night, every family trip, and every moment cheering on her grandchildren at their events, creating memories that will live on in all of our hearts. With unwavering dedication, she traveled far and wide to be present, demonstrating that showing up was one of the greatest gifts she could give. 

She is survived by her husband of 68 years, Herbert; her three children, Leigh (Don) Gerard, David (Kwangok) Nickel, and Amy (Mark) Miller; seven beloved grandchildren, Dan, Darrell (Kayla), Tracee (Dan), Justin (Leah), Nicholas, Clara, and Ellie; one cherished great-grandchild, Rhett; her sister, Mary (Mike) Jasin; and countless dear relatives and friends who each held a special place in her heart. She was preceded in death by her mother, father, sisters Rita (John) Sinkovec and Doris (Jerry) Kuklinski, and several other treasured relatives.  

Joan chose to stay home and raise her three children while volunteering in many capacities during that time. When her children were in high school, Joan started a 42-year career in the pharmacy at Community Memorial Hospital (now Froedtert Menomonee Falls). She loved being a part of the pharmacy team, where her coworkers became dear friends. Together, they supported one another and shared plenty of laughs along the way. She was the heart of the department until she finally retired at age 86. She was always organized, dependable, and committed to making sure everyone had what they needed. Once retired, she found great joy in her card games with the ladies and enjoyed lunches with her retirement group, where she treasured the conversations, lunches, and lasting friendships. Even at 91 years young, she continued in her lifelong tradition of giving back to the community by volunteering weekly at the St. Boniface food pantry.  

She showed us how to live with humility and compassion, guided by the faith that shaped her life. Anyone who met her knows she never forgot a thing—dates, details, or family stories—and always helped the rest of us when we inevitably got the facts wrong. Her sharp mind, loving heart, and unshakable faith remind us that life is about unforgettable memories, wonderful moments, and never-ending laughs.  

As her health began to decline, she continued to teach us to always be brave, to persevere, and never forget the importance of family and friends. Even in her final days, she reminded us that life is meant to be lived fully to the very end—and she did just that. We take comfort in knowing that she has heard, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”   

In her honor, go do something kind for someone today and every day –  it’s exactly what she would have done. 

Visitation will be Friday December 26, 2025 at St. Boniface Church, W204 N11940 Goldendale Rd. In Germantown, from 10am until time of memorial mass at 11am. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials to St. Boniface Food Pantry would be greatly appreciated.