Mary Jane Nichols

Mary Jane Nichols, 92 years old, peacefully joined her Heavenly Father on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, at Morningview Assisted Living.

Mary was born on June 12, 1931 in South Bend to the late Edward and Josephine (Przybylski) Szalewski. On June 16, 1949, Mary married the love of her life, Stephen Nichols, Jr., who preceded her in death in 1967. Mary is also preceded in death by her son-in-law, Bob Szoke; brother, Edward Szalewski; and her sister, Barbara Manges.

Mary is survived by her daughters, Debra (David) Nawrot, Audrey Szoke, and Tammy Nichols; her grandchildren, Stephen (Stephani) Szoke, Ryan Szoke, Karey (Mike) Bultinck, Amy (Greg) Evans, and Joshua Nawrot; her great-grandchildren, Alexis, Sutton, Saxton, Staten, Olivia, Genna, Toby, Millie, Joslyn, and Matthew; and her sister, Janet Grabarek. Mary is also survived by her beloved cat, Tinker, who brought her much joy and meant the world to her.

Mary was a resilient person. At the age of 35, she lost her husband leaving her to raise 3 daughters as a single mother. Mary and Stephen had a small farm with many animals they loved to share with other family members and friends.

A Celebration of Mary’s Life will be held at a later date. Private burial has taken place at St. Joseph Cemetery, South Bend.

The family would like to express much appreciation to the staff at Morningview Assisted Living for the exceptional care they provided for Mary. They would also like to thank Heartland Hospice, St. Joseph Funeral Home and the workers at the cemetery.

In Lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Mary's name may be made to a pet charity of donor's choice or planting a tree. Donations may also be made to Morningview Assisted Living.

Online condolences can be made at sjfh.net.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mary Jane Nichols, please visit our floral store.