William “Bill” Nickel

December 4, 1958 - September 18, 2024

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Krause Funeral Home Brookfield

21600 West Capitol Drive

Brookfield, WI 53072

Sunday 9/29, 1:00 pm - 2:45 pm

Krause Funeral Home Brookfield

21600 West Capitol Drive

Brookfield, WI 53072

Sunday 9/29, 3:00 pm

William ‘Bill’ Nickel, aged 65, peacefully passed away on September 18th, 2024, with his family by his side. Bill was a Husband, Father, Brother, Coach, Colleague, and Friend. Bill was a source of strength and support to many; always willing to help where needed. His delightful sense of humor, wonderful laugh and smile will be greatly missed.

Born December 4th, 1958, in Oshkosh, WI, Bill was the son of Arthur (Art) and Lois Nickel (Hielsberg) and the youngest brother to Nancy Merrill, Jay Nickel, and Bruce Nickel.

In his early years, Bill was an avid high school basketball player and later in life he enjoyed playing pickup basketball at the YMCA and local park with friends. He enjoyed watching high school basketball and regularly attended home games at Brookfield Central.

After graduating from high school, Bill worked in construction with his father for two years, building homes and apartments in the Fox Valley area. Throughout the rest of his life, he used his carpentry skills to tackle every home improvement project and remodel two homes; welcoming the excuse to buy new tools and use the opportunity to pass his craftsman knowledge onto his son.

While living in Oshkosh, Bill met his wife, Judy, at Mable Murphy’s. They were married on April 24th 1982. After marriage to Judy, Bill attended college at the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee; graduating with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration. While living in New Berlin, WI, Bill and Judy had two children, Erik and Elise. Bill was a constant presence in his children’s lives. He never missed a chance to support and cheer his kids on at their sporting events. Bill enjoyed coaching Elise’s youth soccer and basketball teams, and during family Christmas gatherings, he would serve as one of Santa’s beloved assistants.

In May of 1985, Bill began working at MGIC, helping people achieve home mortgages. He was loyal to his company and always spoke highly of those he worked with. In April of 2024, Bill retired from a career that spanned 38 years and touched the lives of so many of his colleagues with kindness, humor, and expertise.

In retirement, Bill and Judy enjoyed attending local concerts, specifically The Love Monkeys, and dubbed themselves the newest groupies. He would take his grand-dog, Brooks, for a weekly trip to the dog park in Menomonee Falls for a good run and squirrel chase. Bill and Judy would also regularly meet up with Elise and her husband Luke, for a beer at the local Milwaukee breweries. Bill was planning to travel the United States with his wife Judy, visiting national parks and monuments in a recreational vehicle. Bill was also inspired to continue his father’s legacy by taking up woodworking, where he envisioned crafting chairs, tables, and other pieces that Judy would beautifully upholster.

Bill had a deep passion for fitness, dedicating himself to both weightlifting and running. His home gym was always well-equipped, and for many years, he enhanced his workouts by visiting the YMCA. You would always catch him in an old cotton t-shirt, tall white socks, and black running shorts. In retirement, he maintained his active lifestyle, exercising daily at the Brookfield WAC or Lifetime Fitness.

He was preceded in death by his mother (Lois Nickel) and father (Art Nickel). Bill is survived by his wife Judith Nickel, son Erik (Kelly) Nickel and daughter Elise (Luke) Menges, and grandson Benjamin William Menges, due in November 2024.

Dad, we will forever miss your lighthearted and kind spirit. You taught us to be fiercely present, to find joy in small daily routines, and to be compassionate and grateful to those that surround us, especially family. Your support never wavered. We intend to live by your mantra, “Always stay humble and kind.” We love you indefinitely and may you rest in peace.

In celebration of Bill’s life, a memorial service will be held at 3:00 PM on Sunday, September 29, 2024, at Krause Funeral Home, 21600 West Capitol Drive, Brookfield, WI 53072, with visitation starting at 1:00 PM.

Krause Funeral Home Brookfield

21600 West Capitol Drive

Brookfield, WI 53072

Map

Sunday 9/29, 1:00 pm - 2:45 pm

Krause Funeral Home Brookfield

21600 West Capitol Drive

Brookfield, WI 53072

Map

Sunday 9/29, 3:00 pm

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Our deepest sympathies are with you at this time.

Bill, You will be missed by family and friends beyond your wildest dreams!!! The world has been a better place with you in it!

A memorial tree was planted in memory of William Nickel . Plant a Tree

Having worked with Bill at MGIC, he was always patient, kind, professional and prepared. He was one of the good guysso sorry for your loss.

A memorial tree was planted in memory of William Nickel . Plant a Tree

We can shed tears that he is gone, or we can smile because he has lived, and lots of smiles are in order for the life of Bill Nickel! Thank you, Bill, for making the world a better place.

So very sorry to hear of Bill's passing. His good nature and joyful laugh will always be with us. We hope you find comfort knowing he is in heaven.

A memorial tree was planted in memory of William Nickel . Plant a Tree

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

Bill was always so kind and generous, and we are blessed to be able to honor and celebrate his life. Our hearts are with you during this time.

A memorial tree was planted in memory of William Nickel . Plant a Tree

Many good times at MGIC with Bill's sense of humor. His booming laugh was contagious.

A memorial tree was planted in memory of William Nickel . Plant a Tree

Elise, Alison told us about the sudden passing of your father. I was so very sorry to hear this. I can imagine what a shock this is to all of you. Reading his obituary was so insightful to the man he was to you, your brother, and your mom. His loss is profound. He will be little Benjamin's guardian angel. Sending sympathy and prayers that you all weather this storm surrounded by love, support, and beautiful memories of your dad. -- Cathy Markey

Your life, your presence will never be forgotten by so many. You're lucky to have been such a bright light with so many people and in so many ways. Not a lot of us can say that during our lives but you can. Your life was cut short, but you'll be back again, you have a good spirit and light. Love and peace my friend.

We love you Bill and will miss you.

A memorial tree was planted in memory of William Nickel . Plant a Tree

Bill was a Good Man. When I worked with him at MGIC, I couldn’t help but notice that he was always smiling, helpful, joyful, caring, and very good-natured with a fun sense of humor. This loss is devastating, and my heart goes out to his family and colleagues who will always cherish the blessing of knowing him. I wish you peace.

To the family, please accept my condolences on your loss. Bill was a great colleague who was always easy to work with. He never lost his cool even when conditions were stressful and his underwriting knowledge was second to none.

We are grateful for all the support and wonderful memories that Bill brought to our lives.

Days of Sunshine Bouquet was purchased for the family of William Nickel by Anonymous. Send Flowers

A tree was also planted in memory of William Nickel

I'm deeply saddened after hearing about Bill's passing. His smile and kind words are still so clear in my mind from his retirement party. Having the chance to work with him during my summer internship was a true blessing. Bill made such a positive impact on my life and made MGIC a better place for all of us. I'm so sorry for this loss. He was truly wonderful and will be remembered always.

Dear Judy and family, I am so sorry to learn of Bill's death. May your hearts find healing. Sincerely, Ginger Whitstone

As a MGIC employee, I knew Bill for several years and worked with him in the Tosa office for a brief period before its closure. He was a dedicated employee for many years and his untimely passing is devastating. I never heard Bill speak an unkind word. He was always a congenial friendly guy. A devoted family man he spoke proudly of his children. To Judy and his entire family, I offer my sincere condolences. Embrace the memories for they will always be with you.

I am so very so hear about Bill's passing. I worked at MGIC with Bill for many years - most of the time on the same floor so we would we see each other frequently - he is truly one of the nicest people I have ever known.

I am heartbroken to hear of Bill's passing. I worked with Bill at MGIC for many years and he left such a memorable imprint at our company. I'd run into Bill frequently in the kitchen - always a smile on his face, always in a good mood, always ready to chat! We'd discuss Wisconsin sports and how excited he was for a family celebration whether that be his daughter's wedding, his and his wife's anniversary, or most recently, his retirement! No matter what the topic, I'd always walk away smiling and in a better mood. Please know how much light he'd bring to our days just from a simple conversation :) Sending my deepest condolences to Bill's family and friends <3

Sincere condolences to the Nickel family on Bill's passing. I worked with him the last 20 or so years of his career at MGIC, and we always talked about family and what we would do in retirement. He was a friend to all, always fun to be around, and just an overall great human being. I am so sorry for your loss.... karen maierle

He loved it when I played Santa for the holiday parties and it would give him good cheer. For me, it was hearing his laugh fill the hallways that made things cheerful. Hearing it in conversation or from down the hall was such a treat. You were a great man Bill. Sending love to your family. They are in our thoughts.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

I've not met a kinder, more cheerful soul than Bill Nickel. So happy to have had the chance to work with him. Always patient always kind always smiling. With hopes that all of these shared memories and kind words help bring some light those that have been left in the wake of this sadness.

Bill was a lovely person. I am glad I had a chance to work with him at MGIC. He will be missed. Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. Take care.

A memorial tree was planted in memory of William Nickel . Plant a Tree

Bill will remain in our hearts forever -- he was a great man and we're all better for having known him. Keeping you in our prayers.

Beautiful in Blue was purchased for the family of William Nickel by Bill's Product Development Teammates and Friends. Send Flowers

A tree was also planted in memory of William Nickel

Dear Nickel family, I was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Bill. He was an incredible person, and it was an honor to have known him. His kindness, dedication, and warm spirit touched many lives, including mine. Please know that my thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. May you find comfort in the cherished memories you shared together, and may you find strength in each other in the days ahead. With heartfelt sympathy, Ruijiao

Judy and family...Bill was a very kind person. I worked with him for over 27 years. He always took the time to make you feel special. He will be missed. Sending love and prayers your way.

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.