Jack Lee Nika, 75, of Springfield, passed away on Saturday, November 18, 2023, at his home. He was born December 7, 1947, in Springfield, the son of August and Anna (Ciesler) Nika. He married Debra Ann Hakes on September 17, 1977.
Survivors include his wife, Debra Ann Nika of Springfield; daughter, Anna Kathleen Nika Mengal and son-in-law, Eric Mengel, both of Carrollton, TX; four grandchildren, Reed Arlington, Christian Tyler, Grant Lucas, and Audrey Leona Mengel; two sisters, Helen (Merle, deceased) Branham of Springfield and Lois (Gene, deceased) Cory of Rochester; brother, Robert (Gloria, deceased) Nika of Springfield; sister-in-law, Mary Carol Nika of Berlin, IL; several nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and cousins; and many extended family members.
He is preceded in death by his parents; four siblings, Anna Marie Nika, Fred Nika, Paul (Judy, deceased) Nika, and Leona Tertel; nephew, Jeff Branham; and niece, Lisa Page.
Jack graduated from Lanphier High School, received his bachelor’s degree from Illinois State University, and his master’s in education from University of Illinois at Springfield. He was a member of Cherry Hills Church. He served his country as a United States Army veteran.
Jack was on the Chatham School Board in 1997 and was very involved with the development of Glenwood High School. He worked for the State of Illinois Disability Determination Services for five years and later for the Department of Revenue, retiring in 2001. He loved watching and cheering on Lanphier’s and Glenwood’s basketball and football teams. He loved to travel, taking several trips to Europe and a special trip to Israel. One of his greatest joys was spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.
Visitation: 10 am – 12 pm, Friday, November 24, 2023, at Staab Funeral Home – Springfield.
Funeral Service: 12 pm, Friday, November 24, 2023, at Staab Funeral Home – Springfield with Pastor Donald Kaufman officiating. A burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Cherry Hills Church – Springfield or American Heart Association.
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