History & Staff

Ever since we opened our gates we have approached life (and death) differently. While some just see the end of a loved one’s life as a time for grief and mourning, we prefer to think of it as a time for reflection, appreciation and even celebration. This is evident in everything we do, from the way we conduct our services to the amenities we choose to offer. We are not just a funeral home. We are a close knit community dedicated to honoring, sharing and preserving the amazing and inspirational stories that are life.

Why Us?

In a nutshell? Experience, professionalism, compassion, and empathy.

We've learned a lot over many years. Like how to present options without overwhelming. And how to meet the needs of many caring parties. People come to us in difficult times, and we respond kindness, calmness and expertise. Our goal is to create a beautiful occasion and make you feel welcome, always. We spend our days planning with families. We stay up to date with industry developments. And we make hard times a little easier.

Our funeral home has been an integral part of the community since World War II, and it has always been our goal to care for the residents of the Columbia Basin with a community-minded, family-oriented approach. Bill Nicoles originally purchased the funeral home from LeLand Plots in the 30's. He added on to the building in order to have accommodations for a chapel. Mr. Nicoles served the Ephrata community throughout WWII and for many decades thereafter.

From 1988, the Precht family purchased the firm and the funeral home was staffed by Funeral Director Jim Irving, with his wife, Verna who provided the office support. They worked side-by-side, until Jim passed away in the mid 90's. Verna continued to put her energies into the business, and in 1992, she was joined by her daughter Susan. As a licensed funeral director and embalmer, Susan brought her youthful perspective, energy, and deep compassion into the firm – while continuing that tradition of caring begun by her parents.

Into the New Century

In 2005, Kevin Precht purchased his family's interest in the Funeral Home and continued to operate it while working to bring new offerings to families, such as video tributes, after-service receptions, and helping families prearrange funerals. In 2011, Susan stepped into semi-retirement, and owner/funeral director Kevin Precht serves the needs of the families in Ephrata, Soap Lake, Quincy, Moses Lake, Coulee City, the Columbia Basin and surrounding areas. “We consider it an honor to be allowed to assist those who turn to us for care. We are dedicated to professional service, and every family that comes to Nicoles receives the most attentive care possible.” In 2011, Kevin added the support of Bea White, and her husband Mike to continue the caring efforts that every family deserves. They work together to accomplish the family's needs during such a difficult time.