Lee Nicholson

Lee was an inspiration for so many of his students. He was my instructor at Modest Junior College. One of my fondest memories about Lee was when he would read to the class. His voice and manner took on each of the characters so believably. Listening to Lee read brought all the images in our imagination become clear and entertaining. I think of him many times when working in my art studio. He is still inspiring me.

A very memorable and special senior english teacher I will never forget. Rest in peace.

I only found out recently when my letter was returned that Lee was gone--our friendship had no context. We corresponded sporadically for 30 years. Lee's creativity was astounding, his mind electric, his friendship a pleasure and a comfort.

Lee Nicholson was my English teacher at Turlock High School in 1961. He was bright, hardworking and inspired high school students to think, in spite of themselves. I never forgot his lessons on errors in rhetoric and I never forgot who taught them to me. I am sure he added value to the lives of every student that he taught.

Because I could not stop for Death,
He kindly stopped for me;
The carriage held but just ourselves
And Immortality.
We slowly drove, he knew no haste,
And I had put away
My labor, and my leisure too,
For his civility.ED

Brilliant and funny with a wry wit, he liked to spend words generously . We were very lucky to have him here.I'll miss him

Words strangle me right now, Lee, as I think of you uprooted and floating effortlessly into the universe. Fly into your next life with the same poetic passion that has illuminated so many for so many moons, in this one. Rest in peace, Lee. You will be greatly missed.

Lee Nicholson's creative writing class at MJC was one of my most enjoyable college experiences. Lee inspired and was everything you would expect from a great teacher.

Jim Welch

Lee was a fun, crazy, intelligent, sweet and crazy guy. I had him in a dual class with Ron. The two of them were such a great team. Lee was a great spirit, a multi talented artist-poet who made his students feel worshipped.