Brian L. Nicholas

Brian was born April 12, 1950, in Escanaba, the son of Robert and Betty (Grenier) Nicholas. He was raised in Gladstone, graduating from Gladstone High School in 1968.

After high school, Brian enrolled at Western Michigan University, where he graduated with majors in agriculture and biology. On July 1, 1972, Brian was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart, the love of his life, the former Caren Cannon, at All Saints Church in Gladstone. Together the couple made their home in Gladstone and raised their three children Matthew, Carrie, and Andrew. Through the years Brian enjoyed coaching and volunteering in the various activities of his children.

Brian began his career at Farmers Home Administration before taking a position with Federal Land Bank in Escanaba, where he enjoyed working with area farmers. He then worked for North Country Bank — first in Manistique, then in Stephenson — before starting his own commercial property appraisal business, Peninsula Appraisal Services.

Brian was a lifelong member of All Saints Church where he served as a Eucharistic Minister, an usher, and a member of the All Saints Building and Grounds Committee. He further donated his time by joining the Gladstone Jaycees, serving on the Gladstone Housing Commission, and volunteering with the Upper Peninsula Honor Flight.

Brian enjoyed hunting and fishing in his spare time, and spending time with his children and grandchildren. He will be forever deeply missed.

In addition to his mother Betty Nicholas and his loving wife Caren, Brian is survived by, children, Matthew Nicholas, Andy (Lynn) Nicholas and Carrie (Brandon) Gerlikowski; brother, Robert (Candy) Nicholas; sisters, Delores (Dale) DeLisle and Barbara (Roger) Gabriel; grandchildren, Elyse, Emma, and Graham; brother-in-law, David (Diane) Cannon; sisters-in-law, Colleen (Gene) Olsen and Carol (Mark) Beveridge; and beloved cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Brian was preceded in death by his father, Robert, and father- and mother-in-law, Francis and Carmel Cannon.

Brian’s family will receive friends on Tuesday from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., at the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone. Mass of Christian Burial will follow visiting hours on Tuesday at 3 p.m. at All Saints Church in Gladstone with Rev. Fr. Jamie Ziminski officiating. Luncheon will follow in the All Saints Parish Hall. Memorial contributions in Brian’s name may be directed to the Delta County Cancer Alliance or the Gladstone Scholarship and Student Loan Foundation. Envelopes will be available at the Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes are assisting the Nicholas family with arrangements. Messages of condolence may be offered at www.skradskifuneralhomes.com.