William Nickell Ames' Obituary
William Nickell Ames, 86, of Duluth, Minnesota, passed away on December 18, 2025. Born and raised in Duluth, Bill lived a life marked by intelligence, discipline, and conviction. His life reflected a commitment to purpose, principle, and making a difference.
Bill was preceded in death by his father, William Harold Ames; his mother, Margaret Nickell Ames; and his brother, Donald Carder Ames.
Bill graduated from the University of Minnesota with a degree in Aeronautical Engineering. He began his career at General Dynamics on the Atlas Missile Defense System before spending 27 years with IBM, where he built a respected and accomplished career. He also held a lifelong passion for studying the stock market and a deep reverence for American history and truth, contributing significantly to educational accuracy in Texas SBOE Social Studies Standards. His work correcting historical content included the stories of Todd Beamer and the Wright Brothers. Both families personally wrote letters to Bill expressing their gratitude to preserving their families legacy. Those Texas Standards influenced publishers to correct and create a greater balance in Social Studies textbooks for high school students across the nation.
In retirement, Bill became an active conservative voice, frequently publishing letters to the editor in The Dallas Morning News, speaking at school board meetings, and meeting with leaders in Austin and Washington, D.C. He authored a book documenting his efforts to improve textbook accuracy and participated in various grassroots civic events. He often quoted his guiding reminder: “If you’re not taking on enemy fire, you’re not over the target.”
David Barton, Founder of WallBuilders, endorsed Bill’s work. Saying, “these are the best social standards since World War II.”
Kelly Shackelford endorsed Bill, as a result millions of children will know about the founding principles of this country and what makes America Great.
Bill felt that his purpose in life was realized and that he made a difference.
He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Lynette Kelly Ames, his daughter, Tiffany Robinson (Simon) and his son, Scott Garret Ames. Bill also leaves behind grandchildren, Rylee Clements (Cody), Reagan Robinson, Kyle Robinson (Caroline) and great-grandchildren, including his first great-grandson, Cooper Clements, born the day before his passing. And Charlie Robinson due February 13, 2026. And two nieces Terri Ames Klatt (Tom) and Debbie Ames (Doug).
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
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