Mary Helen Nikoley

Mary Helen Nikoley
May 8, 1943 ~ June 20, 2025

Mary Helen Nikoley, a beloved Christian, devoted wife, nurturing mother, cherished grandma and Nini, and esteemed pastor’s wife, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2025 in Rancho Bernardo, California with her daughter, Kirsten, by her side.

Born May 8, 1943, in Reno, Nevada, Mary was the daughter of former Reno Mayor August Frohlich and Helen Hecox Frohlich.  She married her childhood sweetheart, Hans Nikoley, on June 25, 1961.  Together, they built a life filled with faith, love and devotion to their family and community.

Mary accepted Christ as her Savior in 1971, a decision that profoundly impacted her life and the lives of those around her, including leading her husband, Hans, to faith in Christ.  As a pastor’s wife, she served faithfully as the church pianist in both Turlock and Poway, California.  Her musical talents brought joy to many.   She also taught Christian Womanhood and Home Economics to the teen girls at Poway Christian School, imparting wisdom and nurturing their growth.

Mary loved spending time with her family and friends, creating a beautifully decorated home that welcomed all.  She cherished camping trips to Annett’s Mono Village outside Bridgeport, California.  Her love for exploring never diminished from the Sierra mountains to the Santa Cruz hillsides, to scooter rides around Stowe Lake with her Hansie.  Her passion for collecting tea sets led her to host delightful tea parties for her friends and family.

Preceded in death by her beloved husband, Hans, her parents, August and Helen Frohlich, and two brothers – Charles McAvoy and Richard Frohlich.

Mary is survived by her two children, Matthew (Phyllis) Nikoley and Kirsten (Kenneth) Starlin, who carry forward her legacy of love and faith.  She was a proud Nini to Amy (Paul) Bolton, Sarah, Jonathan (Emily), and Grandma to        Kacey (Jared) Lenhert, Kristina Starlin, and Dakota-John Starlin, and great grandmother to five great-grandchildren; Joshua Levi, Skye, Alani, Jack, and Penny.  Each of them held a special place in her heart, and her love for them was boundless.  She also leaves behind a host of extended family members whom she deeply loved and valued throughout her life.

Mary Helen Nikoley will be greatly missed by her family and a vast community of friends whose lives she touched with her faith, kindness and unwavering spirit.  She will be laid to rest with her husband, next to her parents at the Masonic Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Reno, NV, where her memory will forever be cherished. 

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