Thomas Nicholson Jr.

Thomas Nicholson Jr. NORFOLK - Thomas H. Nicholson Jr., 82, died Sunday evening, Oct. 24, 2010. Tom was born in Norfolk, where he was believed to have built Virginia's first mini-storage facility in 1973 and went on to a successful business career that he always attributed to his love for people. During the Korean War, he proudly served in the U.S. Army; he was held as a prisoner of war for 21 months. His many interests in the Tidewater area included sailing, fishing, and the Chesapeake Bay. He was a two-term president and long-time board member of the Virginia Opera. He loved to travel and was always eager to learn more about the world. For 17 years, he and his wife Geraldine owned a villa in Porto Santo Stefano, Italy, where they enjoyed the company of friends from many diverse backgrounds and places. He was always optimistic, providing great strength and inspiration to his family and friends. In addition to Geraldine, Tom's wife of 56 years, he leaves a son, Thomas H. Nicholson III; a daughter and son-in-law, Liza and Gary Baker; a daughter-in-law, Kelly Nicholson; a sister and brother-in-law, Betty and Bill Harrison; a brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Patty and Ned Webb. He was a cherished grandfather of five grandchildren: Caleb, Lydia and Ben Baker, and Nick and Edward Nicholson. We are all thankful for the last year we had together. A memorial service will be held this Saturday, Oct. 30, at 2 p.m. in the First Presbyterian Church, 820 Colonial Ave., Norfolk, VA 23507. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Chesapeake Bay Foundation, 142 West York St., Suite 618, Norfolk, VA 23510.