Visitation for Robert Steven Nicholls, 78, of Carlisle, who passed away Wednesday, March 5, 2025 in Pleasantville, Iowa will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 12, 2025 at Overton Funeral Home in Indianola.

Cremation will follow the visitation and inurnment of cremains will be at a later date in the Palmyra Cemetery, Palmyra, Iowa.

Bob is survived by his wife, Linda Nicholls; sons, Bryan Nicholls and Bob (Jean) Nicholls; grandchildren, Ethan Mauro and Drew Nicholls; brother, Jim (Janet) Nicholls, nephew, Tom (Erin) Nicholls; niece, Jennifer (Matthew) Otten; step-children, Pamela Powell and Tony Powell; step-granddaughters, Mykayla and Mia.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Marion and Eleanor Nicholls.

Bob graduated from Indianola High School in 1965.

He attended Iowa State University for two years, and received his undergraduate degree from William Penn College in Oskaloosa, Iowa. After college, Bob returned home to the Nicholls farm, and farmed with his father and brother. Bob was proud of his contribution to the continued operation of Nicholls farm, which was recognized as an Iowa Century Farm in 2011 at the Iowa State Fair.

In April of 1984 Bob took a job delivering mail for the United States Postal Service. He continued to work for the United States Postal Service as a rural route mail-carrier until his retirement in December of 2012. Bob got to personally know many folks on his mail route.

He was a hardworking man and was liked by many.

One of Bob's favorite activities included bowling. It was at a bowling event of the "Mixed Nuts" bowling league that Bob first met Linda Hyson. They dated, their relationship flourished, and they were married on June 20, 1987. They formed a life-long commitment to one another as husband and wife.

Bob and Linda enjoyed vacationing in Deadwood, South Dakota and Cheyenne, Wyoming, to experience the historic old west, watch rodeos, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

During the Halloween season, Bob enjoyed helping his brother, Jim, decorate the old barn and haunted forest for the 4H Clubs.

After retiring, Bob spent many hours working on restoring his collection of vintage gas pumps, gas signs and oil cans.

He also devoted a lot of time to improving and maintaining their home and grounds. Friends and relatives were always welcome to enjoy the great back-yard view of his farm.

Bob was known within the family for his sweet tooth; ice cream being his favorite food, right up to the day of his death.

In April 2019, Bob was diagnosed with small cell lung cancer. Over the next six years he battled cancer and other health issues. During this time of hardship and diminishing capabilities, the prayers of friends and family and Bob's faith in God were a source of encouragement and strength. On March 5th, 2025, Bob died peacefully, holding the hand of his wife Linda.

Memorials in memory of Bob may be given to Kiya Koda Humane Society.