Matthew Nicklas

Matthew Nicklas, born 9/11/1983, was a driven and enthusiastic son, brother, uncle, and friend. When he found a passion, he dedicated his life to it.

On September 11, 2001, he woke up to numerous phone calls, not to greet his day with birthday wishes, but with news of the terror unfolding in NYC. He knew from that moment what he had to do - he went down to the recruiter's office and volunteered to serve our country in the Army. During his active duty, he served in South Korea as a medic.

An avid supporter of his community, Matthew performed in theater programs, DJ'd events such as summer movie nights and the Circleville NYE ball drop, built and supported the prison ministry in town helping released prisoners' get back on their feet, and supported and grew the homeless shelter at the North end of town. Whether it was buying boxes upon boxes of candy canes to wrap and drop off on peoples porches Christmas morning or buying roses to celebrate Mothers day for the single mothers who worked with Elizabeths Hope, Matthews small acts created a large impact on the community. He was known around town for his fun and inspirational painted signs he put in his front yard. Most notably, Matthew's greatest passion was his love of the electoral process. When the Board of Elections Director position opened he eagerly applied and was selected for that opportunity. He set to work to improve processes, procedures, and ultimately, get the word out to the community to VOTE! He was dedicated and passionate about his role as Director.

Matthew had that same drive and determination for his family and friends. He hosted Super Bowl parties and went to football (Go Steelers and Bobcats!) and baseball (Go Reds and Columbus Clippers!) games with siblings, nieces and nephews. He always encouraged his siblings, whether it was teaching them how to drive, matching the payment for their first car, or helping them move and start their life, he would go the extra mile for the people he loved. As his extended family grew, he showed the same love and support to his nieces and nephews, showing up to school band and community theater performances as well as school athletic games. There was no activity too small for Matthew to cheer his family and friends on.

Matthew is preceded in death by mother Linda Nicklas, father Gerald Nicklas, grandmothers Louise Cairns and Helen Nicklas, grandfathers Charles Cairns, Royce East, and Charles Nicklas, and nephew August Nicklas. He is survived by siblings Sarah Nicklas (Nicole, Hailey, and Jasmine), Jeremy Nicklas (Audrey and Constantine), Stephen Nicklas (Brittany, Andrew, and Zoe), James Nicklas, Catherine Zubal (Daniel, Cadence, and Mason), Bethany Nicklas, and his two fur children, Phoebe and Aurora.

Friends may call at Moreland Funeral Home, 55 E. Schrock Rad, Westerville, Saturday from 11 a.m.- 12 Noon followed by a sevice at 12 Noon