Ray Nichels passed away

Ray Nichels -- 1922-2005

We are  saddened to report the passing of our friend, Ray Nichels, one of the
preeminent  race car mechanics and car builders of the 1940s, 1950s and
1960s, on Friday,  November 25, 2005.

Raymond "Ray" Nichels, age 83, of Merrillville,  Indiana passed away on
Friday, November 25, 2005. He is survived by his loving  wife of 58 years, Eleanor
(nee Govert); two children: Terry (Kathy) Nichels of  Highland and Vickie
(Bill) Masters of GA; 10 beloved grandchildren and 12  beloved
great-grandchildren; brother, Albert (Maxine) Nichels of Griffith;  brother-in-law, Vince Sell of
Merrillville and numerous nieces and nephews.  Preceded in death by his
brother, Roy Nichels and sister, Grace Sell. Funeral  services were held on
Tuesday, November 29, 2005 at Our Lady of Consolation  Catholic Church, 8303 Taft
St., Merrillville, Indiana with Rev. Joseph Vamos,  officiating. Ray was laid to
rest at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens in  Schererville, Indiana.

Ray was the founder and owner of Nichels Engineering and Nichels Automotive Products. He was the former co-owner of G&N Aircraft. He was involved in Indianapolis Motor Speedway Auto Racing since 1949 as Chief Mechanic, Car Owner and Builder, as well as the USAC and NASCAR Stock Car divisions. He was a member of Our Lady of Consolation Church, a veteran of WWII U.S. Coast Guard, American Legion Griffith Post #66. Ray also belonged to many other racing groups and associations.

Memorials on behalf of Raymond R. Nichels may be made to:

St. Jude House of Crown Point
12490 Marshall Street
Crown Point, Indiana 46307-4856
Administrative (219) 662-7066
Fax (219) 662-7041
Web Site -- www.stjudehouse.org
E-mail -- mgovert@franciscancommunities.com

Our Lady of Consolation Catholic Church
8303 Taft Street
Merrillville, Indiana 46410
(219) 769-1755
Web Site -- www.olcweb.org

-Courtesy of Wm. LaDow of LaDow Publishing