Obituary of Clarence NICKEL

March 16, 1928 - Flowing Well, Saskatchewan

August 5, 2020 – Calgary, Alberta

Clarence Nickel, beloved husband of Kathaleen Nickel (nee Baum), of Calgary, AB passed away on Wednesday, August 5, 2020 at the age of 92 years.

Born on a farm near Flowing Well, SK, he was the youngest of nine children. In 1947, he moved to Calgary and began working for Revelstoke Sawmill. Clarence married Kathaleen in 1949, and they recently celebrated their  seventy-first wedding anniversary.

In 1951,  Clarence joined the Calgary Fire Department. In addition to his firefighting duties, he was assigned to the Rescue Car (the precursor to the ambulance) where he used his first aid skills. He also worked in the HazMat unit. In 1988, he retired as Deputy Fire Chief.  Clarence loved his job and his fellow firefighters calling it “The best job ever.”

 Clarence was a devoted father to his two daughters and always took an interest in their schooling and activities. He volunteered throughout his life with organizations such as Saint John’s Ambulance, Clean Calgary, and the Calgary Stampede (Parade and Visiting Bands Committees). When retired, he volunteered to do projects at the Capital Hill Community Hall.  Clarence was Mr. Fix-it. His family and neighbours depended on his handyman abilities.

Clarence accomplished much through out his life and was particularly proud of his friendship with Grant MacEwan and attending the Banff School of Advanced Management. He relished in his involvement  with the 1988 Olympics through the Fire Department, and even postponed his retirement to participate. Lesser known is his foiling of a purse snatching, and his background acting credit in Superman III, where he and a group of firefighters jump for joy as Superman puts out the fire.

Clarence had a passion for gardening. His lawn was impeccably cut and trimmed, his flowers beautiful, and his lilac bushes always perfectly round. He was equally meticulous about his car, which no matter the age of it, was in perfect condition. He was an avid collector of pins, caps, and other treasures. As a big fan of the Calgary Flames, Clarence always made sure to watch the game or tune in on the radio. He absolutely loved Chinese food, going out with Kathaleen at least once a week for it, regularly treating his friends and family to dinner, and befriending the owners of his favourite restaurants over the years who could guess his order when he walked in the door.

Clarence had many memorable vacations with family and friends. He loved the flowers and hula dancers in Hawaii, the slot machines in Las Vegas, and adventures with his children and grandchildren in Disneyland.

Clarence loved his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, spoiling them every chance he got. A trip to Papa’s was filled with an endless supply of treats and fun.

Clarence’s favourite saying was “Every day is a good day.” He will be most remembered for his willingness to help everyone – family, friends, or strangers.

Besides his loving wife Kathaleen, Clarence is survived by his two daughters and son-in-law, Wendy and David Livingstone of Calgary and Corinne Erlam of Ponoka; six grandchildren, Jesse (Bryanne) Aylward, Shannon (Greg) Erno, Greg (Janine) Livingstone, Sarah (Tyler) Payne, Samantha Caissie (AJ and Jaekin Anderson), and Mick Caissie; and seven great-grandchildren, Madisyn, Rylan, Andrew, James, David, Charlie and Kennedy. Clarence is also survived by a sister-in-law and two brothers-in-law, Sylvia and John Jack, and Bill Wiste; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. Clarence was predeceased by his parents, John and Annie; four brothers, Herbert, Erwin, Lloyd and Lorence; and four sisters, Ella, Bena, Hulda and Esther.

Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed on Clarence’s obituary at www.McInnisandHolloway.com. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to STARS Air Ambulance, 1441 Aviation Park  N.E., Calgary, AB T2E 8M7, Tel; 403-295-1811; www.stars.ca, or a charity of your choice.

The family would like to thank the staff for the care provided at Bow View Manor and Units 36 and 54 at Foothills Hospital.

In living memory of Clarence Nickel, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 CENTRE STREET NORTH, CALGARY, AB T2E 2V6, Telephone: 403-243-8200.