Daniel Andrew Nichols, 77, of Bonners Ferry, Idaho, formerly of Spokane Valley, Washington, went home to the Lord peacefully on January 28, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loved ones, after a brave battle with acute myeloid leukemia.
Dan was born on August 9, 1948, in Sacramento, California, to Lawrence W. Nichols II, “Nick,” and Ruth W. Nichols. The youngest of three boys, he spent most of his childhood in Spokane, Washington, and graduated from North Central High School.
Dan attended Eastern Washington State College, graduating in 1970 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology. Upon graduation, he commissioned through Eastern’s ROTC program into the United States Army as a second lieutenant, branched Infantry. His first assignment took him overseas to Germany.
While serving as Assistant Professor of Military Science at North Dakota State University in Fargo, North Dakota, Dan met the love of his life, Karen Held. They were married in August of 1979 at Fairchild Air Force Base, Spokane, Washington. Throughout his Army career, Dan and Karen made homes across the United States, following his assignments and serving the Soldiers under his leadership.
In January 1991, Dan deployed in support of Operation Desert Storm with the 3rd Armored Division “Spearhead,” serving as the lead ground element. He participated in fierce combat operations, including the historic Battle of 73 Easting.
Following an assignment at the Pentagon, Dan retired from the United States Army in 1992, and he and his family returned to Spokane. In December 2018, Dan and Karen moved to Bonners Ferry, Idaho, where they made their home surrounded by the area’s northern natural beauty until his passing. Dan was deeply committed to taking care of his Soldiers and was equally devoted to his family. He cherished time spent with loved ones, his treasured lake cabin, and the wildlife he enjoyed watching around him.
A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Dan is survived by his wife, Karen; his daughters, Danielle (Brad Mertens), Tiffany (Matthew McCreery), and Michelle (Tyler Clifton); and his grandchildren, Reagan Mertens; Lucy, Abigail, Lily, and Adelaide McCreery; and Chloe, Katie, and Cody Clifton. He is also survived by his brother, Lawrence W. Nichols III, “Bill,” and wife, Judy; along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins whom he dearly loved.
Dan was preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence W. Nichols II and Ruth W. Nichols; and by his brother, James Richard Nichols “Rick.”
A funeral service and celebration of life will be held at a later date.