Gail Susan Nikkel (nee Sleightholm), born August 19, 1953, of Lethbridge, Alberta, passed away peacefully at the St. Michael’s Palliative Care Unit on January 3, 2026. She went to be with her Lord and Saviour at the age of 72 after a long battle with cancer.

Gail was born and raised in Lethbridge, Alberta, to parents William (Bill) and Shirley Sleightholm. She married Harvey Nikkel on September 21, 1974. After living in Lethbridge for 11 years, they moved to the farm outside of Coaldale until their retirement in 2019, when they moved back to Lethbridge. Gail enjoyed teaching Sunday School, girls' club, and Bible Time, as well as volunteering as a camp counselor. Gail was an administrator for several businesses over the years and loved working with seniors at the Sunny South Lodge in Coaldale before retiring due to health issues.

There were many memories made with family while camping, as she loved being in the outdoors. Trips to Hawaii, Florida, California, Cuba, the  Dominican Republic, and Mexico were also filled with unique experiences. A special trip to Israel in 2019 was one of the most rewarding and cherished times for her. A recent special memory was celebrating Harvey & Gail’s 50th Wedding Anniversary in 2024 with family and friends. Gail made many friends with her sharp wit and smile, as well as with her generosity of gifts and time. Her grandchildren had a special place in her heart, and she loved reading Bible stories to them. She had a unique ability to remember people’s birthdays and anniversaries and send them cards. Gail took pride in growing an amazing flower garden every year. 

Her other interests included baking, playing card games, and hosting family gatherings.

Gail is lovingly remembered by her husband, Harvey, and their children, Kevin (Evie) Nikkel (Micah, Levi, Olivia), Roberta Nikkel, and Deanna (Peter) Fast (Judah, Naomi, Meira); sister Peggy (Ron) McKitrick and their children; sister-in-law Lien Sleightholm and her children, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

Gail was predeceased by her parents, Bill (William) Sleightholm and Shirley Sleightholm, brother William Sleightholm Jr., and sister Leslie Hagan.

We would like to say a special thank you to the staff at St. Michael’s Health Centre-Palliative Care Unit and Good Samaritan Society (Park Meadows Village) for their exceptional care during her final months.

A Celebration of Gail’s Life will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at MARTIN BROTHERS RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 – 4 Street South, Lethbridge, Alberta, with Pastor Gary Dupuis officiating. 

For those who wish to watch the service via livestream, please visit www.mbfunerals.com and go to Gail’s obituary page.

Click here to view a livestream of the funeral service.