Joan E. Nicholas

Joan Eleanor Nicholas, 75, of Elbert, CO passed away at her home on Friday, August 17, 2012. She is survived by her husband Edwin, 5 children: Steven, Norman, Clifford, Janelle, Elaine, in-laws: Sharon, Lynn, Kevin and 8 grandchildren: Nathan, Blake, Chase, Trevor, Kainen, Aidan, Dylan and Hope.

Joan was born January 19, 1937, the only child of Eleanor (Nora) Gorrell-Luino. Despite being an only child, Joan enjoyed a large closely knit family with her mother, aunts, uncles and many cousins. Joan’s family was one of the first in the late 1800’s to settle in the rural area now known as Lakewood Colorado.

On May 15, 1960 Joan married Edwin Peter Nicholas of Englewood Colorado. Early in their marriage Joan and Edwin fulfilled their dream by purchasing a small 80 acre ranch in Elizabeth Colorado. There they raised three sons and two daughters. Joan spent the first half of her family life as a homemaker. After her children were all old enough to attend school she began working for the Elizabeth School District’s lunch system until the late 1980’s.

In 1995 Ed and Joan sold their 80 acre ranch in Elizabeth for a 400 acre ranch in Elbert Colorado. Also, from the 1990’s until the end of 2011 Joan worked for the Pinery Country Club where she made numerous friends over the years.

Joan’s passion in life had always been gardening, as anyone fortunate enough to visit her home would immediately see. Joan gained recognition from many for her elaborate green thumb. She could be found at all times of the year tending to her numerous flower gardens and fruit trees. If Joan wasn’t tending to her outside gardens she could be found inside with her 82 houseplants.

Joan is loved by many for her quirky free spirit and determination to live life the way she chose.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 25, 2012, 3:00 pm, at the Elbert County Fairgrounds, 95 Ute Avenue, Kiowa, CO. Reception to follow.