William J. Nikkila Sr.

William John Nikkila, 91, formerly of Zion, IL. passed away surrounded by his family on May 29, 2025, in Kenosha, WI.

He was born on August 16, 1933, in Crow Wing, MN to Jonas and Rachel (nee Seiler) Nikkila. After graduating High School from Edgemont SD, he joined the Army and served in Korea and helped to restore Pearl Harbor. He was transferred into the Army Reserve to complete eight years of service. He was a Corporal Technician and upon transferring into the reserve as Field Artillery. He was a decorated Veteran earning several commendations: National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, United National Service Medal, and Good Conduct Medal.

After completion of his Military Service, he relocated to Hastings Nebraska. Where he worked in the construction field. It was there he met Shirley Robinson, and they were married in 1955.

Together they moved to the Lake County area where they raised six children. He worked at AMC Motors for many years before starting a Construction business with his sons. After successfully training them in the construction field, he changed course, selling Life Insurance and Real Estate. His last position was a Construction Manager for Zion Church Builders. Where he traveled and built several churches throughout the nation. With Shirley at his side they enjoyed many years traveling together, exploring new places, creating friends along the way.

During his lifetime he was a dedicated servant for various causes such as: Mission trips, Love Inc., Crisis Pregnancy Centers, etc. In his spare time, he enjoyed camping, fishing, family outings, and being active in First Christian Church where he was a member.

William is survived by his children, William (Tina) Nikkila Jr., Kevin (Debbie) Nikkila, Tabitha Holcomb, and Rebecca (Tim) Tinker; grandchildren, Cristy, Amanda, Matthew, Jarrett, Roxanne, Alisa, Benjamin, Ernie Jr., Elizabeth, Tiffany, Jessica, Alex, Jason, Kyle; (19) great-grandchildren; and (4) great-great-grandchildren; siblings, Carol (Louie) Penn, and Frank (Jolene) Nikkila; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years , Shirley Nikkila; children, David Nikkila, and Teresa Powers; grandchildren, Jennifer, Kersten, and Alexandra.

Celebration of Life for William & Shirley (who previously passed during COVID in 2020) will be held on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. followed by a memorial service at 11:00 a.m. at First Christian Church, 13022 Wilmot Rd, Kenosha, WI 53142, with Pastor David Vineyard officiating.

In lieu of flowers donations may be sent to First Christian Church, https://kenoshafcc.com/give.