Jo Ann Nickels

Jo Ann (Shaubi) Nickels was born July 31, 1939. Jo Ann passed away peacefully May 26, 2023. Jo Ann was born in Clinton, IN, to Edith and Frank Shaubi.

Jo Ann was preceded in death by her husband, Lowell Nickels; her parents; sisters and brother-in-laws: Rose and Art Favali, Barbara and Richard Nickels, Howard Birdsong and Kenny Nickels. She is survived by her son, Jeff (Maria) Nickels; grandchildren, Jordan Nickels and Carmen Nickels. She is also survived by several special nieces and nephews, along with her sister-in-law, Loretta Birdsong, special lifelong friend, Mary Ann Riggen and cat, Bella.

Jo Ann was married to the love of her life, Lowell Nickels, for over 65 years. Jo Ann spent most of her life as a caring homemaker.  Lowell and Jo Ann  both loved to garden, travel, and collect stamped bricks.  Jo Ann really enjoyed her many trips with her grandchildren/family to Disney World and several cruises. Lowell and Jo Ann saw much of the United States during their retirement years.

Jo Ann was a member of the IBCA (International Brick Collectors Association). She and Lowell enjoyed their many brick swaps all over the country. They made many true  friendships through the organization. Jo Ann was also an avid flower and vegetable gardener. She enjoyed cooking, canning and making jelly.

Jo Ann truly loved her many family and friends. Jo Ann was very close to both of her sisters, Rosemary Favali and Barbara Nickels. Lowell and Jo Ann were inseparable. Her only son, Jeff, was the center of her life. She was so very proud of her family. She also greatly enjoyed spoiling her grandchildren. Many good times were had spending the night at grandma’s house. Her special nieces (Debbie Greeves, Nancy Contri and Kathy Favali), along with nephew, Frank Favali, and their families, were an integral part of Jo Ann’s life.  Christmas family gatherings were always full of fun, laughter and good food. Jo Ann will certainly be missed by all who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Parke-Vermillion County Humane Society at P.O. Box 293, Newport, IN, 47966.

Private funeral services will be held Thursday, June 1, at 11 AM with Pastor Mike Bennett officiating. Giovanini Funeral Home was entrusted with arrangements.