Charles Zartman Nichols

Charles Zartman Nichols, age 94, passed away on Sunday, June 1, 2025 at First Community Village, his home for the past 24 years. Charlie was born on April 4, 1931 in Springfield, Massachusetts to the late Charles and Josephine (Zartman) Nichols. Preceded in death by wives Yoshino Murakami and Catharine (MacDonald) Burkhart, and brother Stuart Nichols. Charlie was known for his broad smile that lit up his entire face, his laugh, and his always positive attitude. Raised by ministers, Charlie began living his faith from a young age. At 19, Charlie was approved as a Conscientious Objector when he was drafted and worked near the East Germany border with refugees. This was the beginning of a life lived serving others. Charlie graduated from The Ohio State University with a degree in Social Work and later received a Masters degree in Social Work from DePaul University. Throughout his 30 year career at the State of Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission, Charlie directly and indirectly helped people with sight impairment find employment. In retirement, he and wife Cathie dedicated their time to refugee re-settlement, helping people learn English, find housing and employment, and teaching them to drive. Retirement also allowed Charlie and Cathie to spend summers at their beloved cottage on Blackstone Lake, Ontario, Canada where he enjoyed fishing, spending time with family, and appreciating with nature. Charles will be deeply missed by his loving children Robert (Dana) Nichols, Ellen (Michael) McCain, Karolyn (Gordon) Burkhart-Schultz, Nancy (Yehudah) Lowy, and David (Chris Holmes) Burkhart; 12 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. Family will have private services at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Charlie’s memory to Roxbury Cottages, First Community Village, 1802 Riverside Drive, Columbus, OH 43212. Please visit www.schoedinger.com to share memories and condolences. Funeral arrangements entrusted to SCHOEDINGER NORTHWEST.