James Glenn Nicholas, 80, of Belleville, IL and Tequesta, FL, born Sunday, April 11, 1943, in Summit, NJ, passed away peacefully with his family by his side Friday, September 15, 2023 at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in O’Fallon, IL.
Jim married his high school sweetheart Donna Rae Hunt on July 24, 1965. Colonel Jim Nicholas proudly served his country as a Communications Officer in the U.S. Air Force for over 30 years. During his long military career, Jim was stationed overseas in Turkey, Germany, and South Korea as well as on bases in 10 different states from New York to Florida, Kansas to Virginia. During his time in Germany, Jim loved sightseeing and camping with his family all over Europe. When back in the States, Jim enjoyed sailing the Chesapeake and Tampa Bays in his Catalina sailboat, playing golf regularly, and skiing with family. He never lost his fondness for traveling and visited countries all around the world, first with his wife Donna, and during the past year with his girlfriend Bernadine Nordstrom.
Jim was a long-time member of First United Presbyterian Church of Belleville, IL and was a leader in the church he loved, serving in a wide variety of positions. He was a kind, hardworking, and humble man with a good sense of humor and a quick wit who loved to laugh. Jim was a devoted father and proud grandfather that never missed a holiday or important milestone in his family’s lives.
He was preceded in death by his:
- Father: James A. Nicholas
- Mother: Gladys Nicholas
- Sister: Janet Hodnett
- Beloved wife of 54 years: Donna Nicholas
Surviving are his:
- Sons:
- Richard (Dale Greenberg) Nicholas of Baltimore, MD
- Kenneth (Lisa) Nicholas of Sandy Springs, GA
- Granddaughters
- Lindsey Nicholas
- Danielle Nicholas
- Niece: Constance (Marty Worcester) Hodnett
Memorials: Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association or First United Presbyterian Church.
Visitation: Visitation from 10:00 am – 11:00 am, Saturday, October 7, 2023 at First United Presbyterian Church, 1303 Royal Heights Rd, Belleville, IL.
Funeral: Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 am, October 7, 2023 at First United Presbyterian Church, with Pastor Rob Dyer officiating.
11 Comments To "James Glenn Nicholas"
#1 Comment By Debbie Bettes On September 17, 2023 @ 7:58 pm
Jim was such a prince. Rob and I got to know him on the AK cruise we went on with Jim and Bernie just a few weeks ago. I was looking forward to traveling with them again. We had a wonderful week of dancing, sight seeing, and fabulous dinners together. RIP my friend. I know you will be missed by so many. Condolences to his children and grandchildren and to my friend Bernie. Peace be with all of you. Deb
#2 Comment By Rob On September 17, 2023 @ 8:03 pm
You will be missed by many my friend as your life was rich with people you blessed with your presence. Anyone that ever met you knew immediately what a special man you were. I am but one of the many that was able to spend some time and experiences with you. I am full of gratitude for the many blessings you gave to my life.
RIP until we meet again.
My condolences and prayers for family and friends and Bernie, our dear friend with whom the four of us returned recently from an Alaskan cruise and such wonderful sights to see together. Jim was such a blessing and I miss him greatly.
#3 Comment By Tammy Bondurant On September 18, 2023 @ 5:50 am
Ken, I’m so sorry to hear about the passing of your Dad. He was always so kind to me and he always liked to make people laugh. I’ll never forget him asking me how my brother ham was doing when he picked us up for a date. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time. Much love.
#4 Comment By Carolyn Ryken On September 18, 2023 @ 10:29 am
Gene and I were so sad to hear of Jim’s passing , our thoughts will be with his family and Friend’s at this time !
#5 Comment By Robert Whitecotton On September 18, 2023 @ 2:11 pm
The true embodiment of the phrase “An Officer and a Gentleman”….and a Christian! John, Grover and I, as well as the rest of the T & T Golf Group were greatly blessed by Jim’s association these past many years and he will be sorely missed. Our condolences to Jim’s entire family and all his loved ones. We Salute you, Sir!
#6 Comment By Cathy/Carlos Rodriquez On September 23, 2023 @ 9:55 am
Jim was a wonderful, fun-loving man who certainly lived life to its fullest. We have beautiful memories of our time spent with Jim/Donna and Jim/Bernie in Turtle Creek, Florida.
We are heartbroken and we are sending our thoughts, prayers and love to Jim’s family and friends. We hope that all of your wonderful memories will bring you peace in these difficult days ahead. RIP Jim✌🏻❤️🙏🏻
#7 Comment By Bev Minor On September 24, 2023 @ 1:35 pm
Jim was such a delightful fun fella! We only knew him a short time. The mark he has made on our lives is priceless. We enjoyed our time with him. Thank you Bernie for introducing him to us. He will be dearly missed. The memories will be cherished forever!
#8 Comment By William L Lawrence On October 3, 2023 @ 6:42 pm
Jim was one of my very best friends. When we first met at Wright-Patterson, we became part of what was then known as the Magnificent Seven. We were extremely close to both him and Donna. I saw Jim about a month ago and was looking forward to meeting his new lady friend. I was so happy that he was enjoying life. He will be truly missed. Proud to have called him a good friend.
Bill Lawrence, Col (Ret) USAF
#9 Comment By Paul Valllina On October 5, 2023 @ 6:15 pm
Jim was one of the finest gentleman you would ever want to meet. He was a long time member of our T and T Golf Group, always had a smile on his face and was loved by everyone in our golf group. He will be greatly missed.
#10 Comment By Bill and Gail Goodwin On October 6, 2023 @ 7:05 am
Gail and I knew Jim and Donna at Wright-Patterson AFB in Ohio. They were a wonderful couple. Jim was a top-notch officer. I really enjoyed working and socializing with him. He will be missed.
Bill and Gail Goodwin
#11 Comment By Mrs. Charles (Betty) Scherrer On October 7, 2023 @ 11:17 am
Richard & Ken, I’m so sorry to hear about the passing of your dad
He was such an amazing friend & your mother too
You all have my deepest sympathy and in my thoughts and prayers
I’m sorry I can’t be at my church for his services but Pastor Rob will be having a wonderful service for Jim
R I P Jim
Mrs Charles (Betty) Scherrer