Stanley “Ernie” Ernest Nichols

Stanley Ernest Nichols, also known to family and friends as Ernie, born on June 24, 1939, in El Centro, California, passed away peacefully on November 24, 2025, in Elk Grove, California. Stanley lived a life full of love, dedication, and service, leaving behind cherished memories and a legacy of kindness.

As a devoted family man, Stanley's greatest joy was spending time with his loved ones, particularly his beloved wife, Debra Nichols. His two daughters, Karla Gonzales and Chantal Margottin, along with his step-daughter Chantelle Espinoza and step-sons Dean Eggink, James Eggink and Christopher Espinoza were recipients of his endless affection. To his family, he was not just a father and husband and grandfather, he was a gentle soul who always made an effort to spoil the women and girls in his life, ensuring they felt valued and loved.

Stanley’s commitment to nurturing family bonds extended beyond immediate relations; his affection also embraced his 12 grandchildren; Alex Gonzales, Abel Gonzales, Alina (Jordan) DeLaCruz, Michael Bovberg, Kenneth Bovberg, Matthew Bovberg, Nathaniel Decker, Anaztazya Reed, Chloe Espinoza, Christopher Espinoza Jr., Devyn Eggink and James Eggink III, two great-grandchildren, Hayden Reed and Westyn Reed, who remember him fondly for his easy-going personality and readiness to lend a hand. His light-hearted spirit and delightful presence will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege to know him.

Professionally, Stanley enjoyed a fulfilling career as a Real Estate Appraiser for over 30 years. This vocation brought him joy, allowing him to blend his analytical skills and personal interactions. He found great pride in striving for excellence and supporting those around him through his work.

Before embarking on his career in real estate, Stanley served honorably in the United States Air Force as a Radar Technician for four years. His service was marked by his humorous outlook on life, famously stating that when questioned about what he hoped to get out from his time in the Air Force, his straightforward answer was simply, “Me!”

Stanley wanted to help people, including those he barely knew, showcasing a heart that reached out to others with warmth and generosity. His signature response to the common greeting, "How are you?" was often a good-natured, “Super-Mediocre,” which reflected his approachable nature and ability to see the lighter side of life. His humorous side was also shown by a quote he loved to say “It’s hard to soar like an Eagle when you’re surrounded by Turkeys.”

He was preceded in death by his mother Frances “Bonnie” Nichols, his father Vernon Nichols, his brother, Bill Nichols, and his first granddaughter, Sabrina Nichols, all of whom will be remembered with love and fondness.

The legacy Stanley leaves behind is one of compassion, humor, and familial devotion. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by his family and all whose lives he touched.