Howard Lee Nicholson

MARQUETTE MI - Howard Lee Nicholson PhD, age 75, passed away on January 18, 2025, at his home in Marquette. Born January 1, 1950, in Wayne County, Indiana, the son of Floyd and Grace (Futrell) Nicholson. Howard graduated from Hagerstown High School in 1968. He pursued higher education with dedication, earning his bachelor's degree from Ball State University, a master's degree from Indiana University, and a PhD from Miami University of Ohio. Howard taught high school social studies at Northwestern High School in Howard County, Indiana, for over 10 years. He then served as a professor at the Alabama School of Math and Science in Mobile. The final two decades of his career were spent as a history professor at Northern Michigan University, where he inspired countless students before retiring in 2018. An avid world traveler, Howard visited all seven continents, climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, and celebrated his 75th birthday in Antarctica. In recent years, he devoted much of his time to restoring a Studebaker Avanti to its original pristine condition. Howard was passionate about living life to the fullest, achieving his dreams, and doing things his way. He is survived by his son, Erik (Thomas) Nicholson of Louisville, Kentucky; his sister, Patricia Maddy of Evansville, Indiana, and Marla Nicholson of New Castle, Indiana; as well as numerous friends, colleagues, and family members. He was preceded in death by his parents. Honoring Howard's request, no public services will be provided. The Fassbender Swanson Hansen Funeral and Cremation Services is serving the family where condolences may be expressed online at www.fassbenderswansonhansen.com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society P.O. Box 6704 Hagerstown, MD 21741.