Ron Nicolen

Ron Nicolen passed over to a better life Monday, Nov. 2, 2009.

His life began July 24, 1934. He was the second son of Richard and Ruth Nicolen. He spent his early years in Ohio and Blissfield, Mich., with his grandparents, Harv and Elsie Nicolen. He moved to PawPaw, Mich., when he was 12 years old to live with his father and step-mother, Helen.

He leaves behind a brother, Don (Teresa), and a half sister and brother, Lynn and Rick Nicolen.

He graduated from PawPaw High School in 1952 and joined the Navy. He was assigned to the 7th fleet.

In 1956, Ron and Nancy were married. They lived in Kalamazoo, Mich., for 42 years where he was employed by New York Air Brake and Kalamazoo Tool. In 1998, they made their home in St. James City. He was a devoted father and grandfather.

He leaves behind a wife, Nancy; a daughter, Jan (Jim) Alexander, a grandson, Aaron J. (Kelly) Helman and a great-grandson Austin J.; a son, Wayne (Ann Alisa) Nicolen, a grandson Shawn (Sarah); a step son, Scott Johnson, and two grandsons, Dan and Derek Johnson; two great-grandsons; and a host of friends.

He touched many lives with his kindness, compassion and humor. He will be sadly missed by his family and friends.