Michael Joseph Nikula, 72

Michael Joseph Nikula, 72, of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, passed away on Feb. 28, 2021, due to complications from prostate cancer. Mike was born on March 13, 1948, to John and Frances Nikula in Bremerton, Wash. He grew up in Seattle and later Spokane, graduating from Ferris High School in 1966.

Mike was drafted into the Army at the age of 20 and served in Vietnam from 1969 to 1970. He was awarded the Purple Heart, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal and Combat Infantryman Badge.

Mike was a natural athlete, but his lifelong passion was music. He was a highly talented keyboardist who lit up the room and hearts of many over the course of his life. Mike was a member of several bands throughout the Northwest, and was even named “Keyboardist Of The Year” by the Inland Empire Blues Society.

Music and family were Mike’s greatest joys. He was happiest when playing golf with his wife, Kelly; watching the Zags; and jamming with his dad, brother, Rex, and close family friends. One of his favorite things to do was to enjoy a summer day on the porch, work on a crossword puzzle and sip on a cold beer.

Family get-togethers sure won’t be the same, but you can be sure the music will live on!

Mike is survived by the love of his life, Kelly Nikula, and their six children: Anika Pauling, Michele Nikula (Mike Wood), John Nikula (Rachel), Natalie (Jeff Zier), Leah (Ryan Heidenreich), and Chrissy Wolf. He has six loving grandchildren whom he was so proud of: Brandon, Brooklynn, John, Dominic, India and Marion. He is also survived by his brother, Rex Nikula (Phyllis); sister, Robyn (Sam Anderson), and their kids, who thought he was a pretty awesome uncle.

The funeral service for Michael will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, March 11, 2021, at Yates Funeral Home in Coeur d’Alene, 744 N. Fourth St. Interment will be at Washington State Veteran’s Cemetery, Medical Lake.

Arrangements are provided by Yates Funeral Home. Online registry and condolences may be found at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.

Please reference this site to join the service remotely:

https://posthope.org/mike-nikula/photos