William O. Nickell, 90, of Elkhart died Sunday May 19, 2013 at Elkhart General Hospital. The Lagrange native was born July 17, 1922 to George and Eula (Baker) Nickell. Bill was a US Army Air Corps. veteran of WWII, as a fighter pilot flying the revered P-51 Mustang. On December 22, 1943, he married Irene C. Moon and in 1960, he founded and became President of Nickell Enterprises, manufacturers and suppliers of custom millwork. Bill became a private pilot and made flying a lifetime activity; he enjoyed playing golf, hunting & fishing and was an avid Detroit Lions & Tigers fan. Bill was preceded in death by his grandson, Scott Nickell as well as his brother, Earl Nickell and sisters, Velma Adams, Kathleen Miller and Ruby McCombs. Survivors include his beloved wife of 69 years, Irene Nickell; his son, Douglas W. (Glenna) Nickell; granddaughter, Sarah (Travis) Kemble and great-grandsons, Kris & Kam Kemble, all of Elkhart and several nieces & nephews. Private family arrangements were made through Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens & Funeral Home, 10776 McKinley Hwy. Preferred memorials are the donor''s choice.