Walter J. Nichols Sr., 86, Altoona, passed away  Monday at his residence, surrounded by family. He was born in Altoona, son of the late Walter and Violet Nichols. He later married Regina Rickabaugh and she preceded him in death in 2005.

He is survived by: 2 sons: Walter E. Nichols (girlfriend, Cheryl) and Manny P. (Karen) Nichols; grandchildren: Mckenzie Nichols, Derek Nichols, Jordan Nichols, Walt Nichols JR, Jennifer Nichols, Nicole Beschler, Michael Boring and Rachel Nichols; and a sister, Betz Patterson(Buddy) and her family Brenda, Betty, Rich and Molly Patterson.

Walter was preceded in death by two sons, Stanley Nichols and David Nichols; and a grandson, Christopher Nichols.

Walt was a lifetime member of Allegheny Township Volunteer Fire Department and served as the fire chief for 41 years. He was known for his dedication to his community and pumping contests, which they drilled Friday evenings and competed on Saturdays. He established Sugar Run Spills in Blair County in 1982 and he was always the go-to guy when hazardous material spills occurred throughout the county. As the business grew, he worked countless hours and eventually moved to a larger facility in 1992. He always led by example and passed his knowledge on to the younger generations.

Friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, April 25, 2025, at Santella Funeral Home, 1106 Eighth Ave., Altoona. A funeral service will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 26, 2025, in the Axe & Santella Family Chapel, 1534 Fourth St., Altoona. Committal will be at Calvary Cemetery.