Robert (Bob) Louis Nikolai age 83, of Dade City, passed away Monday, February 17th, 2020.

Bob was a lifelong resident of Dade City and was born on November 5, 1936, to parents Arsenius and Rose Marie (Nathe) Nikolai.

Bob was preceded in death by his siblings; Betty Sumner, Margie Lambert, Rose Marie (Cookie) Gosselin, Susie Myer, and Pete Nikolai.

A loving husband, dad, and "Poppy" Bob is survived by his wife of almost fifty years, Suzanna (Ghiselin) Nikolai; daughter, Jane Marie Nikolai; and grandson, Robert Clark Nikolai; Additional surviving family includes his sister, Laura Lang; and his brothers, Joe Nikolai, Pat Nikolai, and Jerry Myer. Known by many as Uncle Bobby, he leaves behind nieces and nephews too numerous to count and extended family galore.

Bob began woodworking at a young age working in the cabinet shop at Nikolai Brothers Lumber Company (which later became Pasco Lumber Company). His love of wood continued even after retirement, during which he spent many hours down his shop making beautiful wood furniture and clocks.

Bob also had a passion for anything automotive. He participated in and won many a stock car race at the old Dade City Raceway. His career-life continued as owner of Sumners Radiator Shop. After selling the radiator business in the mid-eighties, Bob went on the road as a long-distance truck driver. When he retired, Bob had 17 years on the open road and had logged over 2 million accident free miles.

In his free time, Bobby was always up for a trip to Homosassa, boating with his brothers. Bob also loved gardening and spending time with his family.

A memorial service honoring Bob will be held at Hodges Family Funeral Home on Thursday, Feb. 20, 2020. Family will receive visitors starting at 3pm with a short service beginning at 4.

In Lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to either the Pioneer Florida Museum & Village 15602 Pioneer Museum Rd, Dade City, FL 33523 or to the Local Humane Society.Arrangements by Hodges Family Funeral Home 301 Chapel Dade City, FL.

Remembrance Gathering

Hodges Family Funeral Home & Cremation Center

Thursday, February 20, 2020 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM 11441 US HIGHWAY 301 Dade City, Florida 33525 Directions Celebration of Life Service

Hodges Family Funeral Home & Cremation Center

Thursday, February 20, 2020 4:00 PM 11441 US HIGHWAY 301 Dade City, Florida 33525 Directions