Harold William Nickerson

Master Gunnery Sergeant William Harold "Billy" Nickerson, 83, passed away on January 25, 2025, in Fort Kent, Maine. A proud son of Stockton Springs, Maine, Billy was born on August 15, 1941, and lived a life marked by service, strength, and spirited devotion to his family and country.

Billy graduated from Ellsworth High School, where he distinguished himself as an exceptional athlete. He lettered in five sports-football, basketball, baseball, cross country, and track-earning a reputation for his natural talent and competitive spirit as an Ellsworth Eagle. His athleticism was matched only by his deep sense of duty and patriotism.

In 1959, Billy answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Marine Corps. What began as a commitment became a lifelong calling that spanned three decades. Over the course of over 30 years, Billy rose to the rank of Master Gunnery Sergeant. His military career was both distinguished and decorated: he served two combat tours in Vietnam and earned numerous awards and citations for his service. An expert marksman with sharpshooter ratings in both handguns and long guns, Billy's precision and discipline were hallmarks of his military excellence.

Among his many assignments were postings at Camp Lejeune; Washington Navy Yard; APA Fremont; Camp Pendleton; MCB Camp S.D. Butler in Okinawa, Japan; and others. Billy was selected and served in the Presidential Honor Guard for John F. Kennedy. One of the most solemn honors of his career was serving on the Presidential Honor Guard during his funeral. As a young Marine, this moment reflected the gravity of his role and the respect he commanded within the Corps.

Billy's dedication to the Marine Corps shaped every part of his life. He embodied its values not only in uniform but also in how he carried himself-with integrity, resilience, and unwavering loyalty.

Beyond his military achievements, Billy was a man of faith-a Christian whose beliefs guided him through life's challenges and triumphs alike. He was remembered by those closest to him as devilishly handsome and fun-loving-a man who brought energy into every room he entered. His family recalls him as a man of great strength, talent, and complexity-someone who lived fully, gave generously, and left behind a legacy rich with stories that will be told for generations.

Billy is survived by his loving children: daughter Barbie Nickerson and her partner Gary Tardie of Winterville, Maine; son Steven W. Nickerson Sr. and his wife Cherie of Nebraska; daughter Bethanie Bailey and her husband Ron of Tennessee; and daughter Cherie Nickerson and her partner Synj of Okinawa, Japan. He also leaves behind his sister Carol Oliver of Ellsworth; thirteen grandchildren; and twenty-eight great-grandchildren-all part of a family tree rooted deeply in love and pride.

He was predeceased by his father Harold "Bill" Nickerson; mother Adella Nickerson; brother George Nickerson; sister Anne Klausky; and brother Loel Nickerson.

Billy's legacy is one etched in courage on distant battlefields, celebrated on high school playing fields, cherished around family tables across continents-and honored now in memory. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and inspiration to those who follow in his footsteps. Semper Fi.

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 28, 2025, from 01:00 PM to 03:00 PM at Franklin Veterans Club 4 Cards Crossing. Celebration to include a potluck late lunch. Family and friends are welcome to socialize afterwards.