Obituary of Ron Nicholson

Ronald Nicholson passed away on November 10, 2017, at the Ross Payant Centennial Home, Assiniboia, Saskatchewan, at the age of 76 years. He was the eldest and last surviving son of George and Fannie (nee Tonita) Nicholson. Ron was born on May 25, 1941, in the Flintoft district. Hard work and determination was instilled at a young age. During his time at school, it was his job to collect the coal in the coal pail and light the furnace. While working in the produce department at the Assiniboia Co-op, Ron met his soul mate, Donna Hanson, when he got the nerve to ask her for a date. His Romanian charm worked, and they married on September 15, 1962. He continued with the Co-op, changing from produce to the fuel department. In 1968, they welcomed their first child into the world, son Greg. Shortly after they moved to the farm in the Wood Mountain district. In 1971, they were blessed with their second child, daughter Leslie. Outside of the farm, Ron worked for Minovitch Cattle Company and later as a Livestock Brand Inspector in both the Wood Mountain and Assiniboia Stockyards. Over the years Ron and Donna built up their farm through risk-taking and a lot of hard work and determination. Ron was a passionate farmer, rancher, and supporter of the community. The 4-H club was a lifelong passion for Ron. He was the leader of the 4-H club for several years and recruited many families to the organization. In 2008, Ron and Donna moved to Assiniboia. Ron continued to be actively involved in the farm. He enjoyed his daily visits to the local businesses. Ron will be dearly missed. He is predeceased by his parents, George and Fannie; brothers, Kenneth, Kelvin, and Clinton. He is survived by his wife, Donna; his son and daughter-in-law, Greg and Raelynn, grandsons, Cooper and Mason; his daughter and son-in-law, Leslie and Victor, grandchildren children, Hayden and Kennedy. A Celebration of Life was held on Friday, November 17, 2017, 2:00 pm at the Assiniboia Alliance Church, with Lionel Moffatt, officiating. Eulogy was given by Leslie Nicholson and Greg Nicholson. The poem 'Close The Gate' was recited by Mason Nicholson. Music was shared by Scott Heatcoat, Gordon Zahariuk, Lori Okraincee. Pallbearers were; Cooper Nicholson, Corbin Selody, Brian Mergel, Kelly Kiel, Lee Peterson, and Dave Landa. Honorary Pallbearers included; Ritchie and Donna Hordenchuk, Gordon and Arlene Zaharuik, Dick and Kay Richards, Lloyd Heatcoat & Colleen Bourassa, Al & Jocelyn Beauregaurd, Floraine Zahariuk, Sharon Caragata, Laverne Karst, Kay & Ed Zado. Lunch and fellowship followed. Interment at Mount Hope Cemetery, Assiniboia, Saskatchewan. Memorial donations in Ron's memory to the Rockglen and District 4-H Club - Beef Project, were greatly appreciated. Online condolences may be shared at www.pichehawkinsgrondinfuneralchapels.ca