Joseph F. Nickle, 90 of Bear, DE passed away on January 14, 2025, at Christiana Hospital, Newark, DE.

Joe was born on October 24, 1934, son of the late Ernest J. and Edna (Harris) Nickle. He was raised in Nottingham, PA until his late teens when he began driving trucks for Browns Express, Newark Tank Plant, and a milk truck. He learned the trade of an auto mechanic in the early 1960's from Dominic Fontello at Brookside ESSO, which Joe later owned and operated until becoming Brookside Exxon. He retired in the early 2000's after 50 years of servicing the community.

Joe was an avid golfer, loved watching sports, and was a long-time season ticket holder for the University of Delaware Blue Hens Football team. As a business owner he was an avid supporter and sponsor of Little League Baseball, Slow Pitch Softball and a bowling league. He was also an active supporter of the Lions Club and Brookside Civic Association. Joe enjoyed his Christmas Train Display and collecting mini silver bars, coins, and die-cast models.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 27 years, Agnes 'Pinky' Schultz Nickle, children, Dale Nickle, Paul Rynkiewicz and Kimberly Miller.

Joe is survived by his children, Joseph Nickle, Jr, Donna Reece, Terri Clark, Ernie Nickle and Diana Nickle; siblings, Viola Carter, George Nickle (Sally), Monica Naylor (Jack) and Elmer Nickle (Faye); 12 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.

A viewing will be held on January 31st from 11 to 12 at the Galena Funeral Home of Stephen L. Schaech, 118 W. Cross St. Galena, MD where funeral service will begin at 12 pm. Burial will follow in Galena Cemetery.