THREE MILE BAY, NY — Gary P. Nicholson, 74, of Three Mile Bay, passed away Wednesday night, June 13, at home surrounded by his loving family and hospice.
Gary was born July 3, 1943, in Watertown NY. He was the son of James Nicholson and Mabel Fenstermaker Nicholson. He graduated from Watertown High School in 1961 and earned an associate’s degree in business from SUNY Canton and a master’s degree in education from SUNY Fredonia. He started his career teaching middle school English in North Collins, NY.
He married the love of his life, Sharon Taft, on Dec. 29, 1982.
Gary had a long and successful career. His career started in North Collins and spanned 33 years. He began as an English teacher and then continued in the same district as a secondary principal. He furthered his career by becoming superintendent of the same district before retiring in 2000. Even after retirement he still continued his love of education and community. After moving to Three Mile Bay to be closer to family and to enjoy his retirement by the lake, he became a member of the F&AM Masonic Lodge in Chaumont, NRA, and NYS Retired Teachers Association. He also became active in the Chaumont Town Board and was acting president of the Lyme School Board from 2004 until his death.
Gary enjoyed gardening, boating, and spending time with his family. Gary and Sharon were also avid travelers and had traveled to all 50 states and Mexico, collecting shirts and magnets from each destination. They also enjoyed numerous family vacations with their children and grandchildren.
Besides his wife, he is survived by a son James ( Araceli) Nicholson of Three Mile Bay, two daughters, Julie (Ilir) Aliu of Baldwinsville and Jennifer ( Eric) Thompson of Clayton, NY and a brother David (Amy) Nicholson of Macedon NY.  He leaves behind his seven grandchildren, Jack, Trisha, Sydney, Norah, Wesley, Adam, Ximena, and a baby on the way.
He was predeceased by his parents, a brother James (1942), and two half brothers, Maitland and Glenn Nicholson.
Calling hours will be 3 to 7 p.m. Monday, June 18, at the D.L Calarco Funeral Home in Watertown. A funeral service will be 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 19, with Rev. Leon Schilling officiating. Burial will be at the convenience of the family in North Watertown Cemetery.
Continuing his love of education a scholarship in his name will be in place through the Lyme Central School P.O Box 219, Chaumont, NY 13622.
Condolences may be made online at www.dlcalarco.com.
