Ron Nickerson

William Ronald “Ron” Nickerson, 75, passed away on April 27, 2025, in Mesa, Arizona at Aegis Hospice. Born on August 18, 1949, in Bar Harbor, Maine, Ron lived a life marked by dedication to education, service to others, and deep love for his family and community.

Ron graduated from Wells High School in 1967 and went on to earn his degree from the University of Maine at Orono in 1971. His early career reflected his passion for learning and teaching—he began as an elementary school teacher in Bucksport, Maine, and later served as both principal and teacher in Kensington, New Hampshire. His commitment to nurturing young minds left a lasting impression on the communities he served.

In addition to his work in education, Ron held several other roles throughout his life that showcased his strong work ethic and adaptability. He worked as an Assistant Grocery Store Manager for Shaw’s Grocery in New Hampshire and spent over twenty years as a Lays Potato Chip route salesman across the state. No matter the job title, Ron brought integrity and diligence to every endeavor.

As a young man, Ron enjoyed building models, playing pickup sports with friends, and inventing competitive games—activities that reflected his creativity and love of fun. A lifelong fan of the New England Patriots, he followed them with enthusiasm through every season. In adulthood, he developed a passion for woodworking and especially loved playing golf. After moving to Phoenix later in life, Ron embraced adventure by taking up motorcycle riding—a testament to his ever-curious spirit.

He moved to Arizona in 2010 and lived with his sister and brother-in-law Joyce and Jim Graves until meeting the love of his life, Lynn Cronk Nickerson in 2014. They married in 2015 and just celebrated ten wonderful years together and have many memories together.

Ron was deeply committed to helping others. He mentored and sponsored dozens of men through a 12-step recovery program, offering guidance and support that changed lives. He also volunteered with a reading program at a local elementary school in Arizona, continuing his lifelong dedication to education and youth.

A man of Christian faith, Ron found strength and purpose through his beliefs. His family and friends meant everything to him—a sentiment reflected in the many lives he touched with kindness and generosity.

Ron is survived by his beloved wife Lynn Cronk Nickerson; his brother Bernard (Bernie) Nickerson and wife Selena (Sam) Nickerson, their children, niece Rebecca Nickerson, and nephew Randy Nickerson; his sister Joyce Graves and her husband Jim; niece Christina Priddy, her husband Joel and their daughter Delilah; his nephew Aaron Graves, his wife Jillian and their son's James and Matthew; step-daughters Nichole Tanton (and husband David) and Amber Ruiz (and husband Dennys), along with their children Taylor, Katie, Brianna, and Kolton Ruiz and his step-son Kenneth Grosser.

He was predeceased by his parents Winthrop “Nick” Nickerson and Dorothy (Wheat) Nickerson.

Ron’s legacy lives on through the many people he inspired with his compassion, humor, wisdom, and unwavering support. He was passionate about Orchard Africa Missions and their mission. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Aegis Hospice or Orchard Africa Missions. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.

Rons Memorial will be in the FALL 2025