This site was created in memory of our Dad, Bill Nickerson, one of the most loving, kind-hearted and generous men ever. People often say things like that in times like this, but if you were fortunate enough to have known him then you know this to be true.
Dad was always bursting with energy, never one to sit still or waste a beautiful day. He always made time for people, and dedicated his life to helping others. His love was unconditional, his support unwavering, his belief that people are inherently good, untarnished.
He was a proud husband, father, grandfather, musician and 'Maniac' spending his adult life in New York conducting choir and sailing on Long Island Sound, but never forgetting his roots in Maine. Together with our Mom he was a founding member of the Peace Corps in Ethiopia, and he carried out its mission throughout his entire life, regularly reminding us all that "your point of view depends upon your point of view'".
In his last days, as his body began to fail, Dad's heart and soul remained as strong as ever. When he struggled to remember what he was saying from one sentence to the next, he still managed to tell jokes to his nurses and speak phrases in French and Amharic. He had only words of joy and pride to share. When he could no longer stand or see clearly, he still managed to kick a ball from his chair for his youngest grandson to catch, and to give him countless smiles and 'high-fives'. And as we sat by the fire in the family room that he built, without ever training as a carpenter, he was often confused about where he was, but he was still content. He sang songs in Italian and smiled at us sweetly, his sea green eyes beaming with light and love, as always.
When he could no longer communicate Dad knew his work here was done, and he left us peacefully in his sleep. In his 85 years here on earth he touched the lives of people all over the world, many who passed before him. We are comforted by the thought that he is with them now, sailing the high seas with the sun at his back and the wind blowing across the bow. Please join us in remembering him here, with your thoughts and stories, or by simply giving someone an extra big smile today. Nothing would make him happier.
Love,
The Nickersons
Memorial Service: Reception:
10.00 AM, Saturday, May 19th Immediately following
St. James' Parish The Copperfield Inn
237 Main Street 307 Main Street
North Creek, New York North Creek, New York
12853 12853
I had Mr. Nickerson in Toaz Jr. High and he was a great teacher. When he was going to do the play "OKLAHOMA" I tried out for the part of Ado Annie. I was a very shy girl and he tried so hard for me to overcome the shyness. My then boyfriend Wayne Mauro was also trying out for a part and he told me to sing to him. Of course it was hard for me but I did it. I didn't get that part but I did get a part as one of the bridesmaids. I will always remember Mr. Nickerson for what he was and what he did for all of us. RIP MR NICKERSON
I was a student at Toaz Junior High School from 1966-69. I was privileged to have Mr. Nickerson as a choir director. The repertoire we learned was high-quality music...and the fact that our choir was quite large - even though we rehearsed at 7:30am - was a testament to Mr. Nickerson's expertise and dedication as a director.
Recently, the Huntington HS Class of 1972 has been putting together our 40th reunion. Many former Toazites have posted on Facebook about the music program and especially about "Oklahoma." Every single person in that production remembers it clearly and with great fondness. It was a completely student-centered production...even the orchestra was made up of students.
The part of Laurey was played by Deborah (Miller) Burke. She has managed to put a full recording of the production up on YouTube...in 15 parts!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mNDHLxxnB9I
In part 15, you can hear her thanking all the teachers...Mr. Nickerson last of all...and you can hear his gracious response.
As a music teacher myself (for 30+ years now) I am amazed and humbled to have been taught by Mr. Nickerson. And so is every other student who was in the choir and in that production. I regret so much that he passed on before we could tell him, in person, what he meant to us...so long ago, when we were awkward, self-concious 13 year olds. We put on a Broadway show! Thank you, Mr. Nickerson. "Oklahoma" remains one of my favorite shows.
Sincerely,
Julie Chilton
