Charles "Charlie" Clark Nickum

Charles "Charlie" Clark Nickum of Robinson, IL, passed away unexpectedly on December 23, 2024. He was born January 21, 1936 in Mattoon, IL, the son of Charles and Vera (Clark) Nickum, both of whom preceded him in death.

On August 25, 1957, he married Diane Shore, embarking on a 67-year companionship. Charlie is survived by Diane and their sons, Brad (Carolyn) of Tucson, AZ and Greg (Beth) of Redmond, WA., and 4 grandchildren, Derek (Mackenzie) Nickum, Ryan Nickum, Eric Nickum, and Kyle Nickum. Charlie was also blessed with 3 great-grandchildren, Aurelia, Cori, and Winston Nickum. They will all truly miss "Grandpa Charlie". Also surviving are his sister and brother-in-law, Jean Anne and Rich Green as well as a number of nieces and nephews.

Charlie graduated from Cumberland High School in 1954. He did his undergraduate degree at Eastern Illinois University, graduating in 1958 and later received his master’s degree at Eastern. Charlie began his teaching career in Industrial Arts in Hobart, IN. Later, he and Diane moved to Robinson, IL where he taught for 17 years at Robinson High School. Charlie felt strongly that young people needed to learn lifetime skills. When his teaching career came to a close, he spent 20 years working as an operator at the Marathon Oil Company.

Anyone who knew Charlie Nickum was very aware that he had a passion and talent when working with wood. He was not only able to build beautiful things, but could also design them. As an active member of the Presbyterian Church of Palestine, IL, Charlie was happy to use his craftsmanship to often help the church. He was a true master of this trade.

Throughout his long life, Charlie and Diane were able to travel throughout the US and Canada usually camping, leading to many exciting adventures. He was quite the hiker. On one trip, they (Charlie and Diane) on a whim, hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon, sleeping on a picnic table overnight before venturing out the next day. Charlie also enjoyed visiting his grandchildren and great-grandchildren in Colorado and Washington.

At Charlie's request, a celebration of his life will be held for family and close friends in the near future. The Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson is in charge of arrangements.