Obituary of William Martin Nicholson

Nicholson, William Martin , born on a farm at Sturgeon, Prince Edward Island 88 years ago on July6, 1922 the youngest son of Annie and John William Nicholson, he passed peacefully moving on to join his older brothers and sisters, and his dearly loved wife Beatrice ( nee Wilson) and eldest grandchild Kristen Nicholson. Bill was a fiercely loyal friend, and happy, hard worker and a gentleman, content in the moments of life. A veteran of WW II, serving with the Prince Edward Island Highlanders, proprietor of Wilson’s Fish in the Saint John City Market, and later owner of Nicholson’s Corner Fish. He was best known as a harness racer, winning the prestigious 1974 Gold Cup and Saucer. He was Canada’s oldest active harness racer for a while, retiring the reins at 84. More importantly, he was a wonderful father and grandfather. He will be missed by his younger sister, Hazel (Derek) Hughes, Summerside, P.E.I. and his many nephews and nieces. He was an inspiration to his children, sons, Bill and his wife Diane; Chris of Ottawa; and his beloved daughters Addie Hachey. He was dearly loved by his grandchildren, Jamie (Paula) Hachey; Tricia (Dan McNeil) Hachey; Bill Nicholson; Paula Nicholson. Also Survived by his sister-in-law, Ruby Wilson. The family wants to thank Dad’s home support friends, Roy, Christina, Sandy and Anne, who made it possible for him to remain at home. We also thank Ridgewood Veteran’s Wing for their compassion and kindness during his short stay. Resting at Brenan’s Funeral Home, 111 Paradise Row, Saint John (634-7424), visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 8, 2011 2-4, 7-9 p.m. and Thursday, June 9, 2-4, 7-9 p.m. The funeral service will be held from Brenan’s Chapel on Friday, June 10, at 12 noon. For those who wish, remembrances many be the Canadian Diabetes Association or to the Kidney Foundation of Canada. On-line condolences may be placed at www.brenansfh.com. He is still racing.