Donna Jean Nickson Obituary (2025)

Donna J. (Nickel) Nickson, age 78, of Yakima, Washington, passed away Thursday January 16, 2025, at her home. She was born May 22, 1946, in Lancaster, Wisconsin, the daughter of Arlie and Sylvia (Knoke) Nickel. She graduated from Lancaster High School in 1964 and attended what is now Wisconsin University in Platteville. Donna was married to Philip E. Nickson, February 17,1967. After they were married they moved to Washington State. She was very active in local and state PTA. Donna was a Paraprofessional at Wide Hollow Elementary School for 25 years. She had many hobbies: sewing, ceramics, knitting, and crocheting, one included beading in which she won an award and had her bracelet published in a National Beaders Book. Donna taught many classes on how to make jewelry. She could make anything beautiful. She spent many summers in the garden and canned everything she could. She loved sharing what she had made with others, raspberry pies, pickles and snack mix were among the favorites. Donna and Phil went on many adventures over the years, visiting family in Wisconsin, their son, in New Mexico, Alaskan Cruises, a trip to Hawaii, a wedding in Maine, and road trips to the Oregon Coast. She is survived by her husband of 57 years, Phil Nickson, their two children, Crystal (Randy) Cruz of Montesano, Washington, Matthew (Angelica) Nickson of Rio Rancho, New Mexico. six Grandchildren, Tasha (Andrew) Slater, Zoe Cruz, Lila Cruz, Faith Nickson, Edward Nickson, and Estrella Nickson; her sister, Phyllis Eck of Lancaster, Wisconsin; and many special nieces and nephews. Donna was preceded in death by her parents, sister Arlene, brother-in-law, Carson Clifton, brother, LaVern and his wife, Mary Alice Nickel, and brother-in-law, Robert Eck. A service will be held at a later date. The date and location will be published when the time comes. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Alzheimer's Association. Contributions may be made payable to either this organization, and can be sent in care of Brookside Funeral Home (PO Box 1267, Moxee, WA, 98936) who is caring for the family. Memories of Donna and condolences to the family may be shared at www.brooksidefuneral.com .