Samuel C. "Sam" Nichols Obituary (1943 - 2023)

May 8, 2023 marks the passing of another Havasu pioneer. Sam Nichols passed away at home surrounded by his family at the age of 79 yrs. He was a man of the old school, a man of his word, a hand shake sealed the deal. He was a working man, played hard and loved his family, friends, Lake Havasu City and his country deeply. Sam was born July 15, 1943 in Bellingham, Washington. While in grade school he moved to Oak Harbor, Washington where he graduated from high school in 1961. His next move was to Eugene, Oregon to start his electrical apprenticeship. In 1964 he read in a boating magazine about a new lakeside city being built and that was the beginning. He married LeaRae McCullough on July 25, 1964, packed the wedding presents in a U-haul and started an adventure that lasted 58 years. He never forgot the 2 night drives out the old highway for the birth of their 2 children in Needles, Ca. Sam and his brother-in-law started Havasu Electrical Company. Their first job was to complete the electrical on Claypool's Market (the first grocery in town). In 1966 he went to work for McAfee-Guthrie Electric Division and managed the company until 1992 at which time he purchased it and Sam Nichols Electrical was founded. In 2008 Sam retired and he and LeaRae started enjoying traveling. Sam did face a challenge while installing the electrical for the London Bridge, as the lights in the 1800's were gas he had to find a way to convert them to electric. This was no easy task. The next task was diamond core drilling all the turtle back lights the length of the bridge. It was a very proud moment when the lights were turned on. Sam was very active in the community, past president of Lake Havasu Contractors Association, Lake Havasu City Rotary Club, Vice President of the Chamber of Commerce. He was very honored to have been appointed to the first city council. He was also a charter member of The Friends of the Fair and loved helping with the rodeo. Sam was an avid sportsman, water skiing, golfing, fishing, hunting, but his love was team roping with his friends. He is survived by his wife of 58 yrs LeaRae Nichols, daughter Brandi and son-in-law Bob Cable of Boulder City Nv., grandson Kyle Ryan of Phoenix. Az, granddaughter McKenna Nichols of Lake Havasu City Nieces Lori Davis-Hanley, Lace Davis, Debbie Borum Nephews Larry Days, Gary Webb. Robert Webb, Sam was preceded in death by his son Corey Nichols, parents Harold and Gladys Nichols, brother Bill Nichals, sisters Lola LaRant and Lois Webb. Celebration of Life will be held at the rodeo grounds on June 10th, 11:00 am-2:00 pm. Donations can be made to Hospice of Havasu.