Chris Nikel's Obituary
Christof Peter Nikel passed away, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, humility, and vision. Born on November 8, 1938, in Germany, Chris carried with him throughout his life a strong work ethic and an enduring appreciation for the opportunities and freedoms he found while pursuing the American dream.
On April 7, 1962, Chris married the love of his life, Milena Prochazkova, in Beirut, Lebanon. Their marriage was a testament to loyalty, partnership, and enduring commitment. Chris was known as a man who loved the land and believed in the value of honest work.
His greatest pride and passion was building his business, Chris Nikel Autohaus, a venture he poured his heart into and represented everything he believed in. He was a passionate provider whose greatest joy came from supporting and caring for his family. Though he accomplished much, he remained remarkably humble, never seeking recognition for the many ways he helped others.
A true visionary and leader, Chris had a natural ability to see possibilities where others saw obstacles. He approached life with creativity, strength, and optimism, embodying the American Dream in the most honest sense of the word. A work contract in California brought Chris to the United States with nothing more than a suitcase, a devoted wife, and a newborn child. After seeing the opportunity to succeed, Chris and his wife decided to make the United States a permanent home. Through sheer determination, he built something extraordinary from the ground up. He cultivated a work culture of respect and partnership where employees worked with him and not for him. That spirit said everything about the kind of man he was.
Chris is preceded in death by his parents.
Chris is survived by his wife, Milena; daughter Tina Nikel; son Chris Nikel and wife Melissa; and grandchildren Mitchell Nikel, Dallas Nikel and wife Sara, Isabella DesBarres, Alexander DesBarres, and Triere Nikel. Great-grandchildren: Warner Nikel, Emma Nikel, Dallan Nikel, and Wakley Nikel. In Germany, sister Katrina Nikel, Nephew Moritz Bauer. Extended family in the Czech Republic: Pavel and Hana Suda; Lenka, Pavel, Andrea, and daughter Andrea, along with numerous other nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and loved ones.
Celebration of Life service will be held Saturday, June 6th, 2026 at 3:00 PM at Floral Haven Funeral Home Chapel.
Reception will follow at the Floral Haven Family Center (Building is located north of the funeral home) from 4-6 PM
We will also have the Rose Chapel reserved for Chris's service across the road from the Main Chapel to accommodate for livestreaming in case of overflow
What’s your fondest memory of Chris?
What’s a lesson you learned from Chris?
Share a story where Chris' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Chris you’ll never forget.
How did Chris make you smile?