Robert E. Nicholas

Robert E. Nicholas, age 93 of Zanesville died Saturday, July 19th, 2014, at Helen Purcell Home in Zanesville. Born April 1, 1921, in Zanesville, he was the son of the late Arthur and Grace Calhoon Nicholas. Bob Nicholas, a prominent community leader of the 70s, 80s and 90s. He was active in the heyday of downtown Zanesville as a member of the Downtown Business Association, organized the annual Veteran and Christmas parades. That success led to his being Parade Marshal of the Zane Trace Commemoration parade at its peak 250 units long and one of largest horse drawn displays in country at the time. He was frequently asked to help other communities in the state with their efforts. He was a member over the years in civic groups like Kiwanis, Zanesville High School Band Boosters, Trinity United Presbyterian Church and the Boy Scouts. A veteran of WWII he also served 20 years on Soldiers and Sailor Relief Commission for twenty years and was a member of many veterans groups and the Sons of the American Revolution Rufus Putnam chapter. He worked 32 years at City Loan and retired only to start a second career as a stage hand at the Secrest Auditorium and different venues in Columbus. A graduate of Ohio University in technical theater his later years allowed him to follow his early dreams. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Ann; son Rob and Daughter in Law Holly of Brooksville FL; plus two nephews and a niece. He was preceded in death by his sister Jean; and brothers Art and Charles. Friends and family may call from 2:00-5:00 P.M. on Sunday, July 27, 2014, at the BOLIN-DIERKES FUNERAL HOME, 1271 BLUE AVENUE, ZANESVILLE, and one hour prior to the funeral service which will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Monday, July 28, 2014, with Rev. Dennis Allison officiating. He will take his final journey by horse drawn hearse to Zanesville Memorial Park Cemetery, Zanesville, where he will be laid to eternal rest with full military honors being conducted by the United States Army in conjunction with the VFW George Selsam Post #1058. Memorial contributions may be made to the Pioneer and Historical Society of Muskingum County: 115 Jefferson Street, Zanesville, OH 43701.

Visitation

Sunday, July 27, 2014 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Bolin-Dierkes Funeral Home
1271 Blue Avenue Zanesville 43701, United States

Visitation

Monday, July 28, 2014 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Bolin-Dierkes Funeral Home
1271 Blue Avenue Zanesville 43701, United States

Funeral Service

Monday, July 28, 2014 11:00 AM
Bolin-Dierkes Funeral Home
1271 Blue Avenue Zanesville 43701, United States