Norbert Georg Nickel, 88, of Shawnee, Kansas passed away at his home on Wednesday, December 8, 2021.
Norbert was born on April 23, 1933 in Alt Eichenau, Germany, to Paul and Agnes (Vogel) Nickel. He immigrated to the United States in 1956 and began his career in Volkswagen repair and flat track motorcycle racing, later owning and operating Nickel Automotive for 17 years. As retirement approached, Norbert returned to his love of motorcycle racing and traveled the country participating in (and winning) AHRMA racing events until he retired from racing at age 82.
To read the Motorcycle Classics article CLICK HERE
Riders on the racing circuit called him grandpa, but to us he was Opa. Norbert had a wonderful and adventurous life. His quiet demeanor disguised a rebel spirit and a fierce independence, and his stories shared around the dinner table amazed us all. His example taught us that you could live wild adventures while still providing a steadying foundation for friends and family. A man of his word, Norbert was as dependable as German engineering.
He is proceeded in death by his wife, Erika. Survivors include his children Mike (Lisa) Nickel of Leawood and Heidi Nickel (S.O. George Pearsall) of Cave Creek, Arizona; grandchildren Alex, Rob, and Pete Nickel and Erika, Johnathon Potter. Loving companion of 16 years, Ilse Wagner.
Per his wishes, the family will have a private celebration of life. Thank you for your warm thoughts and wishes.
Norbert was born on April 23, 1933 in Alt Eichenau, Germany, to Paul and Agnes (Vogel) Nickel. He immigrated to the United States in 1956 and began his career in Volkswagen repair and flat track motorcycle racing, later owning and operating Nickel Automotive for 17 years. As retirement approached, Norbert returned to his love of motorcycle racing and traveled the country participating in (and winning) AHRMA racing events until he retired from racing at age 82.
To read the Motorcycle Classics article CLICK HERE
Riders on the racing circuit called him grandpa, but to us he was Opa. Norbert had a wonderful and adventurous life. His quiet demeanor disguised a rebel spirit and a fierce independence, and his stories shared around the dinner table amazed us all. His example taught us that you could live wild adventures while still providing a steadying foundation for friends and family. A man of his word, Norbert was as dependable as German engineering.
He is proceeded in death by his wife, Erika. Survivors include his children Mike (Lisa) Nickel of Leawood and Heidi Nickel (S.O. George Pearsall) of Cave Creek, Arizona; grandchildren Alex, Rob, and Pete Nickel and Erika, Johnathon Potter. Loving companion of 16 years, Ilse Wagner.
Per his wishes, the family will have a private celebration of life. Thank you for your warm thoughts and wishes.
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