Margaret Mary Nicholas

Margaret Mary Nicholas, a longtime resident of Waterford, Michigan, passed away peacefully on November 4, 2024, at the age of 86, surrounded by the love of her family. Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Margaret was the eldest and only daughter of John Vincent and Mary Elizabeth Geiss (née Holleran) and grew up with a strong sense of family derived from her loving mother and five younger brothers. She went on to become the devoted wife of William Michael Nicholas, her partner in life and dance for 62 wonderful years. From the day they married on October 6, 1962, they shared a life of steadfast commitment, lots of laughter, some tears and the warmth of a home that welcomed all who walked through its doors. Together, they built a life centered on family.

As mother to Michelle (Marlin) Wenger, Renee (Jeff) Inglsbee, and Michael (Krista) Nicholas, Margaret was a nurturing yet strong role model, imparting the values of loyalty, toughness, and a love for living fully. Her grandchildren—Jason (Nicoletta) Richee, Nicholas (Catherine) Richee, Paul May, Michael (Lesley) May, Kevin (Nicole) Inglsbee, Ashley (Jimmy) Stachura, Alex Inglsbee, Edward (Jenn) Inglsbee, Claire Nicholas, Madeline Nicholas, Colin Nicholas, Alex Schwartz, and Tahlia Schwartz—were cherished deeply in her heart, always able to rely on her as an unwavering source of strength and advice. She took great pride in watching her family grow and cherished each of her nine great-grandchildren—Julian Richee, Luca Richee, Connor Inglsbee, Liam Inglsbee, Owen Inglsbee, Brielle Stachura, Dominick Richee, Gianna Richee, and Mila Elizabeth May. She also held a special place in her heart for her brothers and their wives—John “Jack” (Virg) Geiss, David (Jacqui) Geiss, James (Carolyn) Geiss, the late William (the late Suzanne) Geiss and Edward (Linda) Geiss—each connection deeply rooted in love, respect, and shared memories.

A proud graduate of Fordson High School’s Class of 1957, Margaret held onto her high school friendships, reconnecting with them at homecoming each year with the same enthusiasm she had as a young woman. Her 27-year career as a reservationist at United Airlines provided her with lifelong friendships that remained close to her heart even after retirement. Never one to stay idle, Margaret traveled widely with her family, exploring places like England, Ireland, Hawaii, and many cities across the United States with a sense of adventure that was uniquely hers. In retirement, she and William became “snowbirds” in Florida, spending winters surrounded by good friends, reuniting and reliving memories with the same vibrant spirit.

Margaret’s home and yard were reflections of her heart: beautiful, well-tended, and meticulously maintained. She took pride in her yardwork, but her greatest joy was gathering her family around the table for meals during holidays and birthday celebrations. Her sense of togetherness left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate her life at a funeral service on Monday, November 11, 2024, at 10 AM at Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic Church, 5481 Dixie Highway, Waterford, Michigan, with instate beginning at 9:30 AM. Visitation will take place on Sunday, November 10, 2024, from 3-8 PM with a Rosary service at 6 PM at Coats Funeral Home in Clarkston, 8909 Dixie Highway. Margaret will be laid to rest at St. Hedwig Cemetery in Dearborn Heights, Michigan.

Margaret’s legacy is one of strength, love, and family. Her warmth, unwavering faith, and the powerful example she set will live on in the hearts of her family and friends. She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and joyfully remembered.

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