Rex Nicola, 73, of Fort Dodge, IA passed away peacefully on June 2nd, 2023 after a long battle with COPD.
Rex was born on August 20th, 1949 to Victor (Boots) and Helen Nicola in Melvin, Iowa. Rex graduated from Melvin High School in 1967.
Rex started his career as a professional painter and wallpaper installer with Winkler Bros. in Ames, IA as a master painter to support his young family of two daughters, Sandy born 1967 & Pam born 1969. In the late 70’s, Rex owned his own painting business for several decades where he traveled around the country. One project was redoing the inside of Maime Eisenhower Birthplace in Boone, Ia. Later, he worked for Silgan in Fort Dodge, IA where he formally retired in 2022.
In 2000, Rex met Arlene McColley through mutual friends in Fort Dodge, IA. They fell in love almost instantly and became inseparable. Rex and Arlene married in 2001.
Rex had a tremendous work ethic, and always made sure that his final product would have passed his dad’s inspection. He was admired in his field, and his services were in high demand. He instilled this work ethic in his daughters as well.
Rex was unendingly devoted to his family and friends and was generous to a fault. Anyone that knew him, knew that he would give you the shirt off his back, and was always available to help a person in need. He was a perfectly imperfect man and was loved by many.
Rex also enjoyed fixing things around the house, reading, and deep discussions.
Anyone who knew Rex knew that he was the most loving father, brother, uncle, and spouse a family could ask for.
Rex was preceded in death by his mother Helen, his father Boots, his beloved sister Mona Kruse, 5 grandchildren, and his dog Gracie. He is survived by Arlene and her daughter Kari, his daughters Sandy Moore and Pam Nicola, his brothers Kenneth Nicola and Glen Nicola, his granddaughters Samantha and Alexandra, and many beloved nieces and nephews.
The family requests that donations be made to Hospice of the Midwest (Johnston IA) in lieu of flowers. A celebration of life will take place later this summer; details are still being worked out.
Comments