Obituary of George Nicholson

NICHOLSON, THOMAS GEORGE (1943-2008)- Passed away suddenly at home on November 2, 2008. Dearly beloved husband of Wynne, his wife of 37 years, father of Scott and Ty and his fianc�©e, Laura Thompson. Predeceased by his parents Thomas and Connie, George is survived in Northern Ireland by his brothers Jim (Margaret), Harry (Moira), Mervyn (Sharon) and his nieces Karen, Lynne (Peter), Gayle, Jane, Jenny and Jill. Much loved son-in-law of Evelyn and the late Harold Griffiths, brother-in-law of Rob (Dawn), Owen (Linda), Rodger (Barb) and uncle of Torrey, Braden (Charlotte), James, Brianne (Jeff), Adam and Garth. Born in Minterburn, Northern Ireland, George was a graduate of Dungannon Royal School and Queen's University, Belfast (B.A.). In 1966, he emigrated by tramp steamer to Canada where he earned his M.A. at Queen's University, Kingston, followed by his Ph.D. at Penn State University. Recently retired as Associate Director, Policy / Implementation after 30 years in the Niagara Region Planning Department. George spent much of the last several years developing the Greater Niagara Circle Route. An avid cyclist often seen in his red jacket riding the trails of Niagara, George recently cycled the Waterfront Trail from Niagara to the Quebec Border and had dreams of cycling across Canada. He will be missed by his many friends, former colleagues and fellow parishioners at St. Thomas Anglican Church. A funeral service to celebrate George's life will be held in St. Thomas Anglican Church, 99 Ontario St. on Thursday, November 6, at 11am. Cremation to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Greater Niagara Circle Route or to a charity of choice.