With heavy hearts, we announce the unexpected passing of John Nicholson, 63, of Harwick, who passed away at home on Jan. 31, 2026. John was born on July 4, 1962, in Pittsburgh, to the late Dolores (Molnar) Nicholson and the late Russell Nicholson. John was an avid outdoorsman who found his greatest joy in long days on the river, quiet moments in the woods, and every adventure nature offered. Whether hunting, fishing, camping, or boating, he cherished sharing these experiences with the people he loved most. John was the ultimate "Pappy" to his grand dogs Finley, Beau, Mable, and Blue showering them with endless affection. His vibrant spirit made him the life of the party, while his steady kindness and infectious humor made him a constant pillar of support for family and friends. John carried an unwavering work ethic throughout his life, inspiring everyone around him with his determination and pride in a job well done. For 32 years, he poured his heart into his work at Bochek's Auto Body as a dedicated auto body technician, leaving behind a legacy of craftsmanship, loyalty, and strength. John shared his life for more than 39 years with his loving wife, Mary Dawn (Suppa) Nicholson, and was a source of unwavering love and support for his children, Lauren Nicholson of Etna, Lindzee (Josh) Budz of Verona, and Johnathan (Brenna) Nicholson of Florida. He is also survived by his siblings, Donna (Tom) Silas of California, Georgine (Dominic) Gatto of North Carolina, Russell (Judy) Nicholson of Butler, Debbie Schuessler (Jay) of Marienville, Renee Nicholson (Tom) of Tarentum, Johanna Nicholson of New Castle, and Duane Nicholson of Greensburg; as well as his adoring mother-in-law, Marion Suppa; and brother-in-law, Charles Suppa. He was preceded in death by his brothers-in-law, John Perri Sr. and Richard Schuessler; his sister, Arlene Nicholson; and his father-in-law, Charles Suppa. John is also survived by many cousins, nieces, and nephews, and he was a cherished father figure to many. To know John was to love him, and he will be deeply missed by all. The family welcomes those who loved John to share a memory in his honor to help keep his spirit alive. Please take some time to send your favorite story to
[email protected]. Friends will be received from 3 to 7 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026, at CHARLES B. JARVIE SPRINGDALE FUNERAL HOME INC., 801 Pittsburgh St., with services at 7 p.m. Interment will be private. Family and friends are invited to join us for a celebration of life honoring John from 1 to 4 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, at The Wicked Witches as we come together to remember and cherish him.
www.jarviefuneralhome.com
Published by The Valley News Dispatch on Feb. 3, 2026.