Christian Nickel, 41, of Lititz, passed away peacefully and surrounded by his loving family on May 21, 2024 following a courageous battle with kidney cancer. Born in Annapolis, MD, he was the son of the late Zitella (Burhoe) Nickel. He was married to his beloved wife Kathy (Byrne) Nickel, with whom he just celebrated his sixth wedding anniversary.

Chris was a graduate of Old Mill High School and obtained a bachelor's from the University of Maryland Global Campus. He worked for 12 years as a software engineer for NIST (National Institute of Standards & Technology). Those that knew Chris knew his passion for the outdoors. He could often be found mountain biking, fishing, snowboarding, camping, and hiking. He was everyone's go-to for anything computer and tech. He loved German beer and more recently making sourdough bread. Chris was intelligent, genuine, funny, kind, inclusive, and the quintessential best friend. He always put his family first. His daughter June was the light of his life; he loved being a dad, taking her on bike trips, and sharing with her his love of the outdoors.

In addition to his wife Kathy, Chris is survived by his daughter, June, 5 siblings: Sherry Hughes (Jim), Scott Smith, Todd Smith, Brigittia Long, and Alice Lawler; and beloved nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends. He was predeceased by his mother Zitella.

Family and friends are invited to gather and celebrate Chris's life on Friday, May 31, 2024, at 11 AM at Charles F. Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory, 3110 Lititz Pike, Lititz, PA 17543. The family will receive guests beginning at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Chris's name can be made to June's College Fund , enter gift code G7X-94X .