Mike Nickels - Woodie Restoration Shop Destroyed

Octie Ham is organizing this fundraiser on behalf of Mike Nickels.

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Traverse City Workshop Destroyed After Fire, Along with Priceless Cars

Your help is needed to help rebuild the renowned classic car/Woodie woodworking restoration shop (Nickels Automotive Woodworking) in Traverse City, Michigan. Mike Nickels was notified early Sunday, Sept 5, 2021 that his 8000 sq. ft. shop was on fire. Mike and his wife Lana were on a weekend getaway a short distance away. They rushed back to find the shop engulfed in flames He and the fire fighters were only able to save three of the valuable cars from the shop.

All his woodworking machines, tools, patterns, and templates, in addition to the shop building were total losses. Mike and Lana also lost some irreplaceable keepsakes from Mike's parents which makes these losses ever more heartfelt.

Mike has restored over 100 classic Woodie station wagons in this old shop. Many of his restorations were rare vehicles for automotive museums and for major collectors. Mike is well known in the antique car circles and has restored examples of most major makes. The years of expertise helped him acquire specialized machines, tooling, patterns, and templates to make all the unique wood parts.

All his woodworking machines, tools, patterns, and supplies, in addition to the shop building were total losses. Mike and Lana lost some irreplaceable keepsakes from Mike's parents which makes these losses ever more heartfelt.

Mike has stated he wants to rebuild as soon as possible and continue the passion he has had for 50 years- rebuilding Woodie station wagons. Your donation will be used to help replace the unique and specialized equipment lost in this tragic fire. The family keepsakes are gone forever, but we can lend Mike our support to recover and rebuild. Mike will greatly appreciate any donations received.

Below are the before and after photos of one of the two 1941 Plymouth Woodies Mike recently completed for Joan and Octie Ham. Both Woodies were in poor condition when delivered to Mike. Both were beautifully restored with new wood and all sheet metal painted,and will be finished for our two daughters. Mike is a great wood fabricator who truly enjoys the people end of his business.