Walter Joseph Nicholson May 13, 1945 – April 12, 2020
Peacefully and surrounded by those that loved him most, Walter Joseph Nicholson passed away at his home on Easter Sunday, April 12, 2020.
Walt will be missed by his loving wife of 51 years Geraldine (Connelly) and his beloved children Kelly (Todd Yost), Kevin (Michele), Leanne (Warren Scherbarth) and Laurie (Jeff Otten). Poppa will always be remembered by his 11 grandchildren: Garrett, Sydney, Carter and Grayson Yost; Wyatt, Jocelyn and Hayden Nicholson; Drew and Tyler Scherbarth; Bryce and Blake Otten. Loved big brother to Marie (Roger), Jim (Brenda), Donna (Steve), John (Audrey) and Barb (Kirk). Special brother-in-law to Judy (Norm) and Robin (Dave). He will be fondly remembered by many special nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Celestia (Johnson) and John F Nicholson.
Walt was born and raised in Logan Township, just outside of the village of Monkton. He met and married the love of his life Gerri during the summer of ’69 and purchased the Nicholson home farm. Together they raised a family, ran a successful farm and purchased and ran the Milverton Stockyards with his brother John for 28 years. Walt loved buying and selling cattle and enjoyed the many friendships with customers, buyers and truckers that were established over the years. After moving to Mitchell in 2011 Walt and Gerri had more time to enjoy Conestoga Lake, Florida extended stays and travelling in general. Walt was an active member with the Monkton Lions Club and could always be found with a book of tickets in his shirt pocket. His circle of friends was grand and Walt was often referred to as the “Social Convener”. He liked to gather with his friends at dances, card parties, pot lucks, auctions, horse races and cottages. His home was also a gathering spot for not only his family and friends, but also his children’s and grandchildren’s friends. His beloved wife Gerri, was always by his side. His children and grandchildren were their greatest accomplishment. He loved being Poppa to his 11 “little rats”. He established special bonds with each and every one of them. Poppa was their number 1 fan, travelling to hockey, baseball and basketball games; singing contests, guitar concerts and step dancing recitals. Ice cream treats and cottage sleepovers were a common occurrence. Knowing his time with his family was limited, he planned a special trip to Nipissing Lodge in August 2019 so we could all be together without any distractions other than watching sunsets and swimming. He sat in “Walter’s Cabin” and watched over the legacy he and Gerri created. We laughed, reminisced and celebrated a life well lived.
Walt’s family wishes to thank the CarePartner Nurses and Dr. Schieldrop whose care gave us extra time with him. We are forever grateful.
A private service was held. A Celebration of Walt’s Life will be held at a later date. Donations to the Monkton Lions Club or St. Vincent de Paul Church Building Fund can be made at LockhartFuneralHome.com. Condolences and video condolences for the family can also be offered through the Lockhart Funeral Home website.
“You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.” Mae West.