Nickolas John Hess was born on November 1, 1960, in Strawberry Point, Iowa, to his mother Bonnie Durnan. He grew up in Iowa and completed 11 years of school before beginning a lifelong career in trucking. This was a profession that became both his livelihood and his passion.
Nickolas began driving trucks after working at his family’s dairy, and over the years he spent 34 years behind the wheel. He worked for several companies before proudly running his own business, NL Trucking. His dedication and strong work ethic earned him respect from coworkers, friends, and family alike. In addition to driving truck, Nickolas also enjoyed helping others. He helped drive tractor for a farmer in Atlantic for six years. Nickolas retired after more than three decades in the transportation industry, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and generosity.
Outside of work, Nickolas found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle, spending time with his family, going to the races to watch the stock cars, and enjoying the outdoors. He especially loved fishing and tinkering with various projects. Whether it was a quiet day in the garage or a ride through the countryside, Nickolas appreciated every moment.
Family meant everything to Nickolas. He married Lisa Hess, and together they built a loving home in Harlan, Iowa. Nickolas was especially proud of his role as a husband, father, and grandfather. He cherished every moment spent with his kids and grandkids. He even took them on some of his longer hauls, including memorable trips to Canada.
Nickolas passed away peacefully on November 11, 2025 in Harlan, Iowa attaining the age of 65 years and 10 days. He was preceded in death by his mom, Bonnie Durnan; brothers, Dave and Robert and sister, Ann.
Left to cherish his memory are his wife Lisa Hess of Harlan, IA; children, Candi (T.C. Carter) Hess of Fulton, MO, Mindy Hess of Fulton, MO, Brad (Katelyn Deeds) Hess of Harlan, IA, Brandon (April Staudt) Hess of Marble Rock, IA, Lexee (Tyler Keeling) Hess of Clarksville, IA, Ava Tyler of Waterloo, IA; step-children, Scott Swank of Pomona, KS, Emily Swank of Jacksonville, TX; 7 grandchildren; 1 great-grandchild and one on the way; step-father, Mike Durnan of Arlington, IA; siblings, Don Dales, Rhonda Dales and Grace Durnan other relatives and friends.
