Richard Gene Nichols' Obituary
Richard Gene Nichols passed away peacefully at his home on April 17th, 2018 a week short of his 82nd birthday. Richard was born in San Diego, CA and lived there his entire life. He graduated from Helix High School in 1955 and then attended two years of a carpentry apprenticeship, working during the day and attending school at night. During his 50 year construction career he built many custom homes throughout the San Diego area and also fabricated bars and restaurants; including the original “Butcher Shop” in Chula Vista, and the “Bahia Hotel Bar and Lounge”. His motto regarding construction was “there is only one way to do it, and that’s the right way!”Richard loved animals, and animals loved him. When the children were young he always had an assortment of dogs, cats, rabbits, ducks, and birds. Later, the neighborhood cats were always leaving their homes and “adopting him”. He also fed the neighborhood birds and squirrels everyday.Richard’s real passion however, was scouring flea markets for antiques. He could be found most weekends at Kobey’s Swap Meet waiting for it to open so he could be one of the first ones to get the goods! He had many friends there who knew the kinds of things he liked, and they would often bring items in just for him. He had an eye for the unusual and was always finding some obscure one of a kind treasure. He took great pride in the various antique shops that he had throughout his lifetime. His shops included; The Curiosity Shoppe on Adams Avenue and later in Old Town, The Main Street Antique Mall in El Cajon, The Ramona Antique Faire, Uncle Richard’s Antiques on Fern Street, in San Diego and presently Uncle Richards located in Consignment Classics on Kurtz Street, also in San Diego. He strived to carry an abundance of items that would appeal to a variety of interests. His shops were always arranged in unique and creative ways to excite his buyers. His personal passion was collecting ornate Victorian hardware, antique lighting, architectural pieces and art pottery.Richard is survived by four children; Sheree Nichols-Schoolcraft, Crystal Roberts, Richard Nichols and David Nichols. He is survived by four Grandchildren; Taylor Walton, Brady Walton, Elizabeth Arden, and Bodie Nichols.The family welcomes everyone who would like to share in a celebration of Richard’s life. A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 18th 2018 at 11:00 in the “Salli Lynn Chapel” located at Greenwood Memorial Park; 4300 Imperial Avenue San Diego, CA 92113.
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