Robert “Squabby” Nichols
Robert Kenneth Nichols Jr., 82, lovingly known to family and friends as “Squabby,” peacefully joined loved ones in heaven on September 9, 2026. Snyder & Hollenbaugh Funeral & Cremation Services is handling his arrangements. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.sandhfuneralservice.com
Squabby was born May 4, 1944, (a day in May that it snowed!) in Burlington, Iowa, to Robert Kenneth and Harriett (Wolfe) Nichols. He grew up in Morning Sun with his twin sisters, Merry and Sherry, and graduated from Morning Sun High School in 1962.
After high school, Squabby farmed with his Uncle Neal Wolfe before beginning a long career at J.I. Case in Burlington, where he worked until his retirement in 2002.
In 1964, Squabby married his high school sweetheart, Carol Sue Cummings. From that day forward, Sue was the love of his life and his greatest companion. Together, they shared 62 years of marriage and had two sons, Jason and Justin.
Squabby was a true small-town guy who loved his community and the people who made it home. He never needed much to be happy — a round of golf, a basketball game, a drive through the Iowa countryside, cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes, mowing at the farm or time at the cabin along the Mississippi River were among his favorite things. He enjoyed celebrating holidays with extended family and gathering with the friends he loved.
But nothing brought Squabby more happiness than his grandchildren. He treasured every opportunity to be a part of their lives, whether it was attending their varied activities, spending time together, or simply enjoying their company. He was proud of them beyond words, and they knew Grandpa Squabby could always be counted on to be there.
Squabby was a lifelong member of Centenary United Methodist Church, a Mason, and a charter member of Heritage Oaks Country Club. He was proud of his Morning Sun roots and remained connected to the community he called home throughout his life.
Squabby is survived by his loving wife Sue; son Jason (Amy); grandson Josh (Jessica); granddaughter Elizabeth (Cameron); and sister Sherry Robb (Richard). He was preceded in death by his parents, his son Justin, and his sister Merry Bonar.
A service celebrating his life will be held Friday, September 18th at 11am at the Centenary United Methodist Church in Morning Sun with a family visitation being held Thursday from 4pm to 6pm also at the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Morning Sun Fire Department, Morning Sun Ambulance Service or the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice.