Grant Richard Nichols, 59, of Tri-Lakes, died unexpectedly of natural causes at his home at 2:38 p.m. Friday, December 24, 2021.

Born on November 14, 1962, at the U.S. Military Base in Ankara, Turkey, he was a son of Gary Rex Nichols and Mary Fay (Carson) Nichols. Growing up in Fort Wayne, he attended North Side High School.

A Native American, he was a proud member of the Assiniboine Indian Tribe on the Fort Belknap Reservation in Montana. For the past 40 years, he has been a resident of Tri-Lakes.

A professional floor covering installer, he worked with both carpet and tile, working primarily as an independent contractor.

Living at the lake, he enjoyed the outdoors and being on the water either fishing or water sports. He liked playing the guitar and making woodcrafts. He had a special fondness for his dogs, Lola and Taz.

Surviving is a daughter, Morgan Brundige of Fort Wayne; his mother, Mary "Fay" Nichols of Tri-Lakes; and a brother Gregory Nichols of Grimes, Iowa.

He was preceded in death by a brother Gary Nichols.

Grant will be cremated and returned to his native land in Montana. Local arrangements are in the care of Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.