Gary A. Nicholson

Gary A. Nicholson (known by friends and family as “GA”, 73 of Wheeling, WV, formerly of West Deer Township, passed away suddenly at the home of his mother in Shaler Township on Tuesday, March 19, 2024. He was born June 12, 1950 in Pittsburgh to the late Byron E. Nicholson and Bridget A. (Marshalek) Nicholson of Shaler. Gary grew up in Russellton, moved to Shaler Township and then graduated from Shaler High School in 1968. Gary then earned his Bachelor’s degree from Alliance College, Cambridge Springs, PA, then went on to earn his Master’s Degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, and finally his PhD from West Virginia University in Chemistry. Gary worked for Bayer Pharmaceuticals for over 34 years, retiring from his position as the Director of Operations at the Iron Oxide Division of LANXESS, New Martinsville, WV in 2006. Gary also taught chemistry at the Community High School in Naples, FL, where he led his students to academic excellence in competition.  He was beloved by his students and was often included in their notes when applying to schools. His greatest love was his wife who passed November 21, 2021, Lucinda “Cindy” K. (Pritsch) Nicholson. They loved traveling the world together.  Cindy and Gary also hosted several foster children and all children in need of a “safe place” to be welcomed, loved, and encouraged.

Survivors include his mother Bridget A. (Marshalek) Nicholson, his sister Doreen A. Nicholson of Washington, PA, his sons Allen (Michelle) Hall of Glen Dale, WV, Jonathan (Diana Preston) Holton of Pittsburgh and Michael (Angela Turner) Starks of Powhatan Point, OH, his sister-in-law Rhonda (Russell) Greer and nephew Ian Greer of Naples, FL.

Besides his father, he was preceded in death by the love of his life, his wife Lucinda “Cindy” K. (Pritsch) Nicholson, and his infant son Jacob Nicholson.

At Gary’s request, all viewing, services and burial will be private. Arrangements were entrusted to the SIWICKI-YANICKO FUNERAL HOME, 23 McKrell Road, Russellton, West Deer Township. He was privately laid to rest with his wife and son. In lieu of flowers please consider sending a memorial contribution to the charity of your choice. View obituary online and leave condolences at www.siwicki-yanickofh.com/obituary/Gary-Nicholson

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