James Cliff Nichols

He was born May 6th, 1927 in West Terre Haute but he lived in Vermillion, IL until April of 1945, when he joined the United States Navy to serve in World War II. James served as a Major 3rd Class on an aircraft carrier in the South Pacific theater during the war. He was also stationed on Guam before completing his service in 1946. During his time in the Navy, James exchanged letters with Gladys Rhoden--a courtship began through their correspondence. He returned to Vermillion after the war, and there he fell in love with Gladys. They were married May 10, 1947. Their marriage spanned sixty-five years, and their passion for each other never faded. They moved to Terre Haute, and James began work as a fireman on the New York Central Railroad. As his family grew, he accepted a position with the United States Postal Service to allow him to spend more time at home. He worked for the Post Office until he retired. James was an avid woodsman who loved the outdoors. An excellent craftsman, his steady hands crafted many beautiful knives and muzzleloader rifles. James was an excellent shot, and he passed his knowledge of shooting on to his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed the teaching almost as much as he enjoyed shooting. He was a life long member of the NRA and the NMLRA. James was a member of the Maple Avenue United Methodist Church. James is survived by his wife, Gladys Nichols; his two children, Pamela Nichols of Terre Haute, and Tim Nichols with wife Stephenna of Indianapolis; six grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. He will be fondly remembered, and sorely missed. Visitation will be from noon until 2 p.m. on Saturday, October 27, 2012 at Roselawn Funeral Home. Services will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday at the funeral home with Pastor David Rockhill officiating. Burial will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park with military rites performed by the West Terre Haute VFW. Online condolences may be made at www.roselawnfuneralhome.net