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Robert W. Nicholson

December 5, 1953 - September 12, 2023

visitation

Visitation
First United Methodist Church
1700 W. State St
West Lafayette, IN 47906
Monday 10/2, 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

service

Service
First United Methodist Church
1700 W. State St
West Lafayette, IN 47906
Monday 10/2, 7:00 pm

Our gentle natured Bob passed away on Friday, September 15, 2023, at IU Health Arnett Hospital.  He lived his life on his own terms, acknowledging that this last year was a difficult one for him. He faced open heart surgery courageously, determined to continue living in his beloved West Lafayette.

He was born December 5, 1953, in Watseka, IL, to the late Everett and Dorothy (Case) Nicholson.  Bob graduated from West Lafayette High School and Purdue University with both bachelor’s and master’s degrees.  He taught middle school for Tippecanoe County School Corp for over 30 years and retired in 2011.

Bob loved sports, especially Purdue teams, the Cardinals, and West Lafayette Parks and Rec softball.  He was an avid golfer with a nasty swing.  Bob was an active member of First United Methodist Church in West Lafayette.  He was an extremely generous and sentimental person, loving and loved by all his many family members and friends. Bob’s life has been a treasure for us all and he will be well remembered and missed.

Surviving are his sisters Jane A. (Joe Yoder) Nicholson of Portland, OR, and Nancy (John) Radcliffe of Parma, OH. Robert was preceded in death by his brother Scott D. Nicholson.

A sports/tailgate themed celebration will begin at 5:00 pm on Monday, October 2, 2023, at First United Methodist Church in West Lafayette with the memorial service starting at 7:00 PM.

Memorial contributions may be made to First United Methodist Church, West Lafayette High School Athletic Department, Purdue University Athletic Department and West Lafayette Parks and Rec Softball in Robert’s memory.

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Soller-Baker Funeral Homes, Inc.
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Tiffany Daniels (Faurote)
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West Lafayette Community School Administration and School Board of Trustees
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Mary Dawson Light a candle
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Visitation
First United Methodist Church
1700 W. State St
West Lafayette, IN 47906
Map
Monday 10/2, 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Service
First United Methodist Church
1700 W. State St
West Lafayette, IN 47906
Map
Monday 10/2, 7:00 pm

Our gentle natured Bob passed away on Friday, September 15, 2023, at IU Health Arnett Hospital.  He lived his life on his own terms, acknowledging that this last year was a difficult one for him. He faced open heart surgery courageously, determined to continue living in his beloved West Lafayette. He was born December 5,Continue Reading

See Condolences
Mark Di Fabio left a message on September 25, 2023:
Always enjoyed Bob as the good person he was. Admired his passion for all sports! Rest well,Bob! God bless you!
Tiffany Daniels (Faurote) left a message on September 25, 2023:
THE best science teacher I ever had. 7th grade science was one of the most memorable classes I had. On top of being a genuinely sweet and understanding man, he made sure class was fun. I will forever associate him with My love for Bill Nye. Thanks Mr. N for all your years teaching. -Tiffany
Kim W left a message on September 25, 2023:
I’m just one of his many many students from over the years. He made a difference in my life and so many students lives. Great man & great teacher!
Ken Thompson left a message on September 24, 2023:
I worked with Bob, or "Gates" as we called him, for many years at the Journal and Courier sports department. I don't think I've known a kinder man. I'm sorry we lost touch with each other post-West Lafayette slow-pitch softball and J&C days. My condolences go out to his family. He will be missed.
Sarah K. Knowles left a message on September 24, 2023:
Mr. Nicholson, you were a blessing to so many. I enjoyed working with you and having you be an incredible educator to my sons. Thank you for all that you were to so many. May you rest in heaven.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
West Lafayette Community School Administration and School Board of Trustees left a message on September 24, 2023:
Extending our sincere condolences to Bob's family and friends. Hoping that the support of loved ones brings you comfort during this sad time.
Ardis Wipf left a message on September 23, 2023:
Jane and Nancy, we are so saddened to hear of Bob's passing, please accept our condolences. What wonderful memories we have of our years as Knox Dr. neighbors when Bob and Jane were the "older ones" helping keep the little ones like Nancy and our girls in line! Thinking of you all at this time and praying you will find peace in the many special memories of Bob that you will be sharing. Fondly, Joe and Ardis Wipf
Jim Rawlings left a message on September 23, 2023:
I will miss visiting with Bob and talking sports, especially Purdue basketball and Aviators baseball. He texted me before about every Purdue game last year asking me how I thought we would do. A pleasure to talk to and a really nice guy. I’ll miss him. Peace brother.
Mary Dawson left a message on September 23, 2023:
Bob was such kind soul and quick witted. We will miss you at the end of our little garage bar this fall and winter cheering on the Boilers. Rest in peace.
Denise McConnell left a message on September 22, 2023:
Great guy he was a groomsman at my weddings and a great writer at the Journal and Couier.
Denise McConnell left a message on September 22, 2023:
Great guy he was a groomsman at my weddings and a great writer at the Journal and Couier.
Gary Halstead left a message on September 22, 2023:
Always enjoyed talking Cardinals baseball with Bob as I ran into him many times at Bruno’s. He loved to talk sports and he will be missed by many. RIP my friend.
Soller-Baker Funeral Homes, Inc. left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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