Motorcyclist who died in Cedar City crash remembered by family, friends

Composite photo, with inset image an undated family photo of George Nichols. Background photo shows wrecked Harley-Davidson motorcycle at the scene of fatal crash at 600 South and Main Street, Cedar City, Utah, Nov. 19, 2021 | Photo by Jeff Richards, St. George News / Cedar City News

CEDAR CITY — The motorcyclist who died in a recent collision on Cedar City’s Main Street has been identified by family members as George B. Nichols, 56, of Cedar City.

As previously reported in Cedar City News, the crash happened the afternoon of Nov. 19 at the intersection of 600 South and Main, when a Harley-Davidson motorcycle heading south collided with an SUV that was turning left. The motorcycle rider was transported via ambulance to Cedar City Hospital, where he died a short time later.

Although police still have not yet officially released the name of the rider who died, Nichols’ stepdaughter Meranda Burkeen provided Cedar City News with his identity and a couple of photographs.

“He was a lovable guy and very giving,” Burkeen said of Nichols, adding that her stepfather had lived in Cedar City for the past 28 years.

In addition to Meranda Burkeen, Nichols’ survivors include his other stepdaughter Adrianna Burkeen of St. George, along with Adrianna’s daughters Abby and Averey. 

Undated family photo of George Nichols of Cedar City, Utah. | Image courtesy of Meranda Burkeen, St. George News / Cedar City News

Nichols also leaves behind his fellow members of the Hangmen Motorcycle Club, whom he also considered his family, Meranda Burkeen added.

A small celebration of Nichols’ life was held at the home of a friend in Cedar City on Sunday evening, Burkeen said, adding that her stepfather’s remains are to be cremated.

Meanwhile, Nichols’ loyal dog Pickles has since found a new home, Burkeen reported, adding that she is still looking for someone to take in his other chihuahua, named Crybaby, who is the son of Pickles.

Cedar City Police said Thursday that the crash remains under investigation.

Copyright St. George News, SaintGeorgeUtah.com LLC, 2021, all rights reserved.

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