10/30/2026
Jack Nicholson, 59, of Pella, passed away October 30, 2026, surrounded by his family at the Northern Mahaska County Care Facility in Oskaloosa.
A short service will be held Friday, November 6, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at the Pierschbacher Funeral Home in Knoxville. Following the service, a celebration of life gathering will be held from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home for a time of sharing stories and fellowship.
Memorial contributions may be made to Jack’s family in care of his daughter, Hannah Killoren. A tribute fund has also been established through his obituary for those wishing to make a contribution.
Jack Wayne Nicholson was born April 21, 1967, in Knoxville, Iowa, to Larry and Martha Faye (Rankin) Nicholson. He grew up alongside his sister, Jennifer Jo, and graduated from Knoxville High School in 1985. Full of energy, quick-witted, and a little ornery, Jack wasn’t afraid to raise a little hell, and a few cars didn’t survive his younger years. Growing up, he worked as a cook at the golf course and Mr. C’s.
Jack loved the outdoors, especially hunting, fishing, mushroom hunting, camping, and boating. Whether hunting deer, pheasant, quail, or turkey, working his hunting dogs, or heading out on a fishing trip, he was happiest outside. Some of his favorite memories were made on special hunting trips with his dad, Larry, sharing a love for the outdoors that meant a great deal to them both.
On March 7, 2002, Jack married Carma, and together they welcomed their daughter, Hannah. Although they later divorced, the two remained close, and Carma continued to be a constant in his life. Jack loved his family and enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren.
Throughout his working years, Jack was employed at Med Central Plastics, Pella Plastics, Co-Line Manufacturing, and Vermeer. He held supervisory positions and was well respected by those he worked with. Jack genuinely enjoyed people and made many lasting friendships along the way.
Jack had a curious side and enjoyed searching for Native American artifacts and ordering unusual things from Amazon. He was always willing to try something new, even when he probably knew better. One such experiment involved planting mushroom spores in his backyard, hoping for a good crop. Despite his optimism, not a single mushroom ever grew.
Jack’s faithful dog, Otis, was his constant companion and best buddy. The two were nearly inseparable, whether spending time outdoors or simply enjoying a quiet day together. Otis was a special part of Jack’s everyday life.
Jack was known for his quick wit and good-natured teasing. In his final months, he began giving everyone nicknames, and no one was necessarily safe. Carma became “Stuart” because Jack thought her glasses made her look like Stuart Little. It was just Jack’s way of having a little fun, and even in those final months, he never lost his ability to make those around him laugh.
Jack will be greatly missed by his father, Larry (Judy) Nicholson; Carma, who remained a special part of his life; children: Randy (Kaci) Nicholson and Hannah (Tyler) Killoren; grandchildren: Teagan and Rhett Nicholson; sister, Jennifer (Kyle) Clark; nieces and nephews: Shane (Kylie) Nicholson and Shawna (Andy) Brown; his faithful dog, Otis; along with many other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Martha Faye Nicholson; and infant sister, Tammy Renae.
Jack will be remembered for his sense of humor, his love of the outdoors, and the many stories and memories he leaves behind. Those who knew him will surely have a few good laughs whenever they remember Jack.