Blenis John Nicholson

1932-2017

Halifax

With heavy hearts and wonderful memories, the family of Blenis “Nick” announce his peaceful passing on Dec 1 at the QEII in Halifax. Born in Glace Bay on April 23, 1932, he was the only child of the late John and May (Roberts) Nicholson. Having been raised in Glace Bay amongst a large extended family, he graduated from Morrison High. He was a proud Cape Bretoner and Mt. Allison Alumnus. He received his education at Mt. Allison University (BA, Bed) and SMU (MA). He taught and was Vice Principal of Truro High School and was principal of West Pictou District High before moving to the Dept. of Education in 1974 and retiring as Deputy Minister of Education in 1991. He represented Canada at 3 Commonwealth Conferences of Education Ministers: Sri Lanka (1980), Kenya (1987) and Barbados (1990). His love of sports followed him throughout his life as a player (basketball, rugby and golf), coach, referee and avid fan. His greatest pride was his family. He proudly supported and followed his children and then his grandchildren through their many sports and activities. He enjoyed his summers at Seacrest, Pictou Co. especially when family and friends gathered there, and his winters in Largo, Florida. He was active in the United Church in Truro, Pictou and Halifax and in many other community organizations. He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Claire (MacDonald); his children Gail (Mark) Finniss, Summerside; Scott (Debbie), Dartmouth and Steven, Ottawa. He is also survived by his 8 grandchildren: Brian (Lauren) and Jeff (Ashley) Finniss, Colin (Christina) and Mike (Erin) Nicholson, Haley, Jacob, Sam and Hannah Nicholson and by his 4 great grandchildren.

Visitation will be at J.A. Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Drive on Thursday, Dec 7 from 2-5 pm. Funeral on Friday at 2 pm at Rockingham United Church, Halifax. Burial at a later date in Pictou County. Family flowers only. If desired, donations can be made to Heart and Stroke Foundation of Nova Scotia or the Alzheimer Association of Nova Scotia.