NEW HARTFORD – Walter J. Nichols, 89, of New Hartford, died Aug. 3, 2012 at Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare in New Hartford.
He was born July 18, 1923 in Utica, a son of Harry and Henrietta Nichols. He attended Utica schools, and joined the U.S. Army following high school. He served in the South Pacific during World War II as an anti-aircraft gunner. Soon after receiving an honorable discharge, he joined the U.S. Navy Reserves, from which he eventually retired at the rank of Chief Petty Officer. Walt was united in marriage with Catherine Mody on Nov. 25, 1950 in St. Louis Gonzaga Church in Utica.
Mr. Nichols worked for several years at the Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute as an exhibit/display technician. Skilled with his hands, he was entrusted with the care of many important and internationally recognized pieces of art. He retired from this position in 1982.
Walter was a member of St. John the Evangelist Church in New Hartford. He enjoyed his membership at American Legion New Hartford Post 1376. With his wife by his side, he was happy traveling around the world, camping at Grass Point State Park on the St. Lawrence River, or simply fishing on the Black River. The couple looked forward every year to spending their winters in Sun City Center, Fla.
In addition to his wife of 61 years, Catherine, he is survived by a special nephew and his wife, Martin and Carol Spencer; a special niece and her husband, Shirley Mody and Bob Tanner; a sister-in-law, Betty Mody; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a brother, Bob, a sister, June, and a niece, Denise Perry.
Walt’s family would like to thank the entire staff of the Allen Calder Wing East - Pod E for the kind and compassionate care given to Walt during his stay there.
His Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday (today) at 12:30 p.m. at St. John the Evangelist Church, 66 Oxford Road, New Hartford. Interment will follow in Calvary Cemetery in Utica. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Dimbleby, Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral Home, 13 Oxford Road, New Hartford, NY 13413.
Online messages of sympathy may be left at www.dfwefh.com.