In Loving Memory of Bruce Edward Nicholson

September 6, 1948 – December 1, 2025

Bruce Edward Nicholson, formerly of Comstock, MI, and more recently Raleigh, NC, passed away on December 1, 2025, after a long journey with dementia.

Born to Buelah and Lawrence Nicholson, Bruce grew up in Comstock, spending his childhood playing sports and finding adventure with his friends. He graduated from Comstock High School with countless memories and lifelong friendships. He went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Western Michigan University and his master’s degree from Central Michigan University.

Bruce proudly served his country in the United States Army for two years, including service in Korea during the Vietnam War. His time in the military remained an important part of his life story and character.

Bruce’s career began as Assistant Business Manager for the Kalamazoo Valley Intermediate School District. He later served as Assistant Superintendent of Finance for the Chippewa Hills School District, a role he held until retirement. His years at Chippewa Hills brought him deep friendships and a strong sense of fulfillment. Never content to slow down, Bruce continued working after retirement with Continental Airlines in both Kalamazoo and Raleigh.

Bruce had a gift for connecting with people. He could strike up a conversation anywhere and with anyone, and he took genuine joy in making others feel welcome. Friends and strangers alike knew they could count on him for a helping hand, a shared laugh, or a cold beer and a good story. Bruce was a force of nature, determined to provide for his family and give them the type of life he felt they deserved. Bruce’s family meant more than anything to him and you could always find him fixing or building things at his daughter and son-in-law’s homes.

Anyone who knew Bruce, knew that he was the most loving father, grandfather and husband a family could ask for. Bruce is survived by his wife of 56 years, Julie Nicholson; his daughter, Kristi (Michael) Walker; and his beloved grandsons, Zachary Walker and Tyler Walker, who were the pride and joy of his life. He is also survived by his sister, Beverly Moorlag; nephew, Mike Moorlag; sister-in-law, Laurie Hutt; nephew, Jason Hutt (Rachelle); sister-in-law, Kathie Varyak; niece, Ashley Oberheide (Jon); nephew, Brenten Varyak (Kelly) as well as many great nieces and nephews.

He is reunited in death with his parents; his brothers, Dale and Terry; his nephews, Timothy and Joseph; and many dear friends who passed before him.

Bruce was loving, caring, and giving. He lived a full and beautiful life and found a peaceful rest. And when your time comes, you can be sure he’ll be waiting with a beer and a smile.

A celebration of Bruce’s life will be held on February 28, 2026, in Raleigh, NC. Please inquire with the family in January for additional details.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to Saving Grace Animals for Adoption, a place close to his heart, where he found comfort and joy spending time with Julie’s foster dogs.