Hugh “B” Nichols passed away March 20th, 2026, after a lengthy stay at Monument Health nursing home in Sturgis, South Dakota. Hugh was born in Deadwood, South Dakota on January 13th, 1941, to parents Hugh and Hilma Nichols of Lead.

Hugh graduated from Lead High School with the class of 1959 and shortly thereafter was hired by Homestake Mining Company in the construction department. He later became a carpenter for HMC, advancing to the position of master carpenter at the time of his retirement. He continued his love of woodworking in his retirement years, building a variety of items in his home workshop. Hugh served his country by enlisting in the Army National Guard in 1963 and was honorably discharged in1969.

He was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing, camping, and hiking. After retirement he and his wife Barb enjoyed traveling and exploring national parks in the western United States. In later years he spent time hiking with friend Jerry Avery and photographing nature. He was an active member of the Lead Rifle team that had a long history of competition, excellence, and competing against teams throughout the state. He was also a member of the Lawrence County Search and Rescue Team.

Hugh was preceded in death by his wife Barbara, father Hugh, mother Hilma, and brother William. Hugh is survived by sisters Betty Brown and Sarah Fardig of Fairfield, CA and Helen Harris of Scottsdale, AZ. A thank you goes out to the entire staff at the nursing home who compassionately cared for him.

In leu of a memorial, please keep “B” in your thoughts during your next hunting or fishing outing.

A private family burial will be held at Mountain Lawn Cemetery.

Cremation arrangements are under the care of Fidler-Isburg Funeral Chapel & Isburg Crematory of Spearfish. Online condolences may be written at https://www.fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com/