Charles Grant Nicholas

In the gentle roll of life's great play, we mark the final scene of Charles "Chuck" Nicholas, a man of kindred spirit and creative heart. Born under the spring's promising light in 1949 in Princeton, Illinois, Charles embarked upon his worldly journey, a path filled with love, laughter, and the pursuit of the craft he held so dear. Alas, on the first day of the new year 2024, in Albany, Illinois, his earthly chapter did come to a close, leaving behind a legacy rich with the echoes of his deeds and the warmth of his presence.

Chuck was the son of Charles L. and Dora Nicholas, both of whom preceded him in death. In 1988, he married his beloved Donna (Park), who remains to cherish his memory. From this loving bond sprang forth a lineage of pride: his sons Benjamin (Janet), Michael (Tracy), and Joshua (Kylee), and a tapestry of life in his grandchildren—Rebecca, Christopher, Matthew, Cynthia, Zackary, Erik, Isabelle, Drake, Kaleb, Jillyan, Annabelle, Genevieve, Bearett, and Emerik along with great-grandchildren, Benjamin, Gracie, Maverick, Miles, Dawson, and Everlii. He was also preceded by his granddaughter Carly and sister Nita.

He graduated from Manlius High School, earned his welder's certification, and further honed his skills at a trade school in the great city of Chicago. His career began with John Deere, but then he joined Alcoa Company, working in the maintenance department, where he spent most of his working years, retiring in 2013.

A man of the earth and water, Chuck found solace and joy in the gentle art of fishing, a pastime he pursued with unmatched zeal. Ever the generous soul, he was ever ready to share this passion with any who showed an inkling of interest, imparting his knowledge and love for the sport. His grandchildren were the stars in his sky, and he found his greatest delight in their company. In faith, he was steadfast, for he loved the Lord with all his heart, and in his actions, one could see the reflection of divine grace.

Creativity was his companion, handiness his hallmark, kindness his crest. Chuck Nicholas was a man who could fashion wonder from the mundane, a touchstone for all who knew him. His spirit was a beacon, his laughter a melody that danced through the lives of those he touched.

Visitation shall be held on Saturday, January 6th, from 11 am until 1 pm, followed by a funeral service at 1 pm at Wendt Funeral Home in Moline, Illinois.

As we bid farewell to Chuck, let us not say he is gone but rather that he has embarked on a journey to a far-off shore, where the waters are calm, the fish plentiful, and the company divine. His tale is one of a life well-lived and a role well-played. Rest well, Chuck, until we meet again in the grand theater of eternity.

Online condolences can be made on his memory page at wendtfuneralhome.com.