Joanne Nickells, 73, passes away

The matron of the Nickells family, Kathyrn Joanne Nickells, of Lighthouse Point, Florida, passed away on Sunday, June 24, 2007, in Indianapolis, Indiana.  Celebrating her birthday on June 13, she had just turned 73.

Mrs. Nickells had been in poor health for some time, but had attended the races at Hoosier Park on many evenings until just a few weeks ago.

She was the wife of noted filly conditioner Bruce Nickells for over 50 years.  Nickells’ standout performers have included Miss Easy, p,3,1:51.1 ($1,777,656); Immortality, p,3,1:51 ($1,614,939); Follow My Star, p,4,T1:52.3 ($1,537,503); Park Avenue Kathy, 3,1:56.4 ($553,521); and Central Park West, p,2,1:53.3f ($534,863).  His recent promising performer is Me And My Baby, p,2,1:53.1 ($207,336), who is currently competing at the Meadowlands.

In addition to Bruce, Mrs. Nickells is survived by two children.  Assisting in the family stable, son Sep Nickells is a trainer-driver.  Mrs. Nickells’ daughter, L. Brooke Nickells, runs the Nickells Stable, LLC, currently competing at the tracks in Indiana.

An owner in the Nickells Stable for many years, Mrs. Nickells campaigned horses like Cosmic Crunch, 7,1:54.4 ($287,809); Midnight Cowboy K, 5,1:57.2f ($92,650); Out Of Sight, p,3,1:52.2 ($200,142); and Padre Hanover, 5,1:54.4 ($169,987).

Mrs. Nickells was considered by many as the glue which held the Nickells Stable together.  The stable currently includes a filly named in her honor, Kathyrn’s Secret.

She was an avid gardener and enjoyed antiquing.  Serving as president of her garden club, the group often raised funds to benefit underprivileged children.

Proceeds from these events would allow the purchase of a bicycle, or other item most children take for granted.  Under her leadership, the club also financed sending these children to various camps.

At Mrs. Nickells request, she will be cremated.  The family will be scheduling a memorial service to be held at Indiana Downs.

Memorial contributions may be made to Fort Lauderdale Garden Club Inc., P.O. Box 4114, Fort Lauderdale, FL  33338.  These funds will be used to continue Mrs. Nickells’ tradition of making the wishes of underprivileged children come true.

Cards may be sent to: Brooke Nickells, 6021 E. 75th St. Apt A-2, Indianapolis, IN  46250