Lester D. Nichols

Lester Dale Nichols, 88, of Westlake, Ohio, peacefully passed away on Nov. 5, 2023. 

He was born on Dec. 15, 1934, in Clear Lake. Lester was preceded in death by Joyce, his wife of 62 years, and his parents, Robert and Irene Nichols.  

He is survived by daughters, Kathy (Chaz Chamberlain), Joanne (Joe Grace) and Becky; sister, Judy Lund; nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Lester graduated from Clear Lake High School in 1952.  He earned an undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Rochester in New York and a master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin. He later achieved a Ph. D. from Case Institute of Technology, solidifying his commitment to lifelong learning.

During his distinguished career, Lester dedicated 35 years to NASA, where he held the esteemed position of Chief for three different divisions. He received the NASA Award for Outstanding Service in 1990.

Lester found joy at the family cottage on Lake Erie’s Middle Bass Island. Lester and Joyce also enjoyed winters in Naples, Fla., for over 30 years. He had the opportunity to teach and share his knowledge in many different arenas including Cleveland State University, the Institute for Learning in Retirement at Baldwin Wallace University and at Brookdale - Westlake Village, his senior living community.  Lester’s legacy of love, dedication and achievement will live on, inspiring future generations.