Claudia Kay Nichols

Claudia Kay (Pfeiffer) Nichols, born Jan. 13, 1952, in Marshalltown, died peacefully in her home on Aug. 21, 2024.

Left to cherish her memory are her three children: Andy (Haley) Nichols, their children, Asher, Lily and Greta. Katy Carey (Joe), their children, Olivia, Jackson and Janey. Molly Fitch (Phil), their children, Tommy and Ben. Her siblings, Amy (Todd) Doyle and Beth (Steve) Rodgers. Her mother, Kay Pfeiffer, and her loving companion, Ron Williams.

Claudia grew up and attended school in Iowa Falls where she met her husband, Tim. They were united in marriage on Nov. 22, 1971, and spent their years together raising children in California, West Virginia, Ohio and eventually settling back home in Iowa. After receiving her BSN from Marshalltown Community College and the University of Iowa, she spent her professional career working as a school nurse in the West Marshall and Spirit Lake Community Schools. After retirement, Claudia returned to the school setting as a special education paraeducator in the Spencer school system.

Claudia’s greatest joys were her grandchildren, gardening, antiquing, decorating, baking, and music. Her friends and family affectionately referred to her as “Coral,” after her vibrant shade of lipstick.

Claudia found a second love in Ron Williams, and in recent years they jetsetted to Europe, explored South America, Hawaii, fished in Minnesota, and wintered in Arizona.

A come-and-go celebration of life will be held from 2-4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 31, at 215 E. Milwaukee St. in Spencer.

Claudia is preceded in death by her in-laws Don and Jane (Rambo) Nichols, brother-in-law David (Holly) Nichols, father Keith Pfeiffer, and husband of 47 years, Tim Nichols.

“Someday, everything will make perfect sense. So for now, laugh at the confusion, smile through the tears, be strong and keep reminding yourself that everything happens for a reason.” — John Mayer