In loving Memory of Kenneth M. Nichols

Private family service at Diamond Lake Lutheran Church: June 23

Celebration of life: July 9 at 4:00 PM

Crystal Lake Golf Course, Lakeville, MN

Kenneth (Ken), beloved son of Charles H. and Mabel (Carter) Nichols, age 91, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2026 after a

courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. He was diagnosed in late April. He spent his final days in his Minneapolis home

surrounded by the love and comfort of his family. Ken was born on Sept. 15th 1934 in Plainfield, Iowa.

Throughout his life, he was known for his devotion to his family, his distinguished career in education and his passion for athletics.

He served as a high school principal for most of his career, including Lakeville High School, where he retired in 1999. In addition he

served in the XIV U.S. Army Corps reserve from 1957-1963 in Texas. A lifelong advocate of health and fitness, Ken maintained an active and athletic lifestyle well into his later years. He enjoyed ping pong, golf, basketball and watching tennis. In August 2025, at

the age of 90, he won the National Senior Olympics table tennis championship—an accomplishment that reflected his determination

and competitive spirit. As a young man, he was the point guard on the basketball team at the University of Northern Iowa, where he

earned his bachelor's degree and later completed a master's degree in education. He firmly believed that education and hard work

were the keys to success and inspired countless students, colleagues, and family members with those values. Ken cherished the time he spent with Ruthanne and his family at their homes in Minong, WI, Sun Lakes, AZ and Minneapolis, MN.

The memories created in those places will be treasured by all who knew and loved him. Above all else, Ken’s greatest gift and

enduring legacy was his family.

Ken’s life was defined by service, perseverance, generosity, and love. He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire all who

were fortunate enough to know him. His guidance, integrity, wisdom, and unwavering love will be deeply missed and forever

remembered.

He is survived by his wife and longtime companion, Ruthanne Strohn; his children, Shari Doyle(Dan), Kristy Cross (Gary), Scott

Nichols(Sarah); Ruthanne’s children, Kristoffer and Olin Noren; grandchildren, Josh, Rozilyn, and Nate Doyle; Nick, Jake (Dani), and Mckenna Cross, Drew and Samantha Nichols; and great-grandchild, Ava Cross.

He was preceded in death by his younger brothers, Bud, Gene, Connie, his first wife, Marilyn, and many other cherished family

members and loved ones.

“In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial gifts be made in memory of Mr. Kenneth M. Nichols in support

of Pancreatic Cancer Research at Mayo Clinic. Donations can be made by phone or by mail: 

Phone: Please call 1-855-852-8129 to talk with a team member who can facilitate a secure gift transfer

over the telephone. We ask that the above information is shared when calling.

Mail: Checks can be written directly to Mayo Clinic and sent to 200 First Street SW Rochester, MN 55905. In the memo line

please write in memory of “Mr. Kenneth M. Nichols”.