William M. Nicholas

William Michael Nicholas passed peacefully in his sleep on March 30, 2026, after a gradual journey with dementia. In his final rest, he was reunited with the love of his life, Marge, who preceded him in death in November 2024, a reunion surely marked by the same joy and dancing that defined their life together.

Bill was born in Detroit, Michigan, the son of an Albanian immigrant, and spent his childhood in the shadow of the newly constructed Ambassador Bridge. Those early years were shaped by resilience and determination, as he sold newspapers to travelers returning from Canada. He grew into a gifted athlete, excelling in baseball at Western High School and continuing to play during his service in the United States Army from 1955 to 1957. Throughout his life, he maintained close friendships with many from the “old neighborhood.”

In the years that followed, Bill developed a passion for automobiles while working at a gas station he co-owned with his brother-in-law, Steve Tomiko. In October 1962, he married Marge, the love of his life. Together, they built a life grounded in devotion, partnership, and a unique connection - one that, even in its more spirited moments, was always rooted in deep love. It was a bond most clearly seen on the dance floor, where the two were truly unforgettable.

Bill began his career as a tool and die maker in 1964 at Michigan Rivet, where he worked alongside several of his brothers-in-law. A proud and dedicated member of the UAW, he remained committed to his craft until his retirement in 2005. Retirement brought a new chapter filled with warmth and connection, as he and Marge spent their winters in Clearwater, Florida, at Dearborn Towers. There, they rekindled old friendships, welcomed visits from children and grandchildren, and created cherished memories filled with beach days, poolside laughter, golf outings, and time spent with friends.

Known for his gregarious personality, Bill had a natural ability to connect with others and brought energy and humor wherever he went. Even as dementia gradually dimmed parts of his vibrant spirit, his deep and enduring love for Marge and his family remained constant.

Bill was a devoted and proud father to Michelle (Marlin) Wenger, Renee (Jeff) Inglsbee, and Michael (Krista) Nicholas. He supported his children through every stage of life with strength and love. His legacy lives on through his 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 - each of whom he cherished deeply and supported wholeheartedly.

He was also blessed with nine great-grandchildren - Julian Richee, Luca Richee, Connor Inglsbee, Liam Inglsbee, Owen Inglsbee, Brielle Stachura, Dominick Richee, Gianna Richee, and Mila Elizabeth May - who brought him immense pride and joy.

Bill shared a special bond with his sisters, the late Barbara (the late Steve) Tomiko and the late Louise Des Jardins, and remained close with his extended family, including his wife’s brothers and their wives - John “Jack” (Virg) Geiss, David (Jacqui) Geiss, James (the late Carolyn) Geiss, the late William (the late Suzanne) Geiss, and Edward (Linda) Geiss. These relationships were built on decades of love, laughter, and shared memories.

Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of Bill on Sunday, April 12, 2026 from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. at COATS FUNERAL HOME-CLARKSTON, 8909 Dixie Hwy. A funeral service will be held on Monday, April 13, at 10:30 a.m. at Coats Funeral Home, followed by a luncheon at Fountains Golf & Banquet (6060 Maybee Rd). Bill will be laid to rest at St. Hedwig Cemetery in Dearborn Heights, Michigan, alongside his beloved wife.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Bill’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association to support ongoing research and care for those affected by dementia. Donations may be made at https://www.alz.org.

Bill will be remembered for his warmth, his humor, his unwavering devotion to family, and the life he built with Marge…one filled with love, laughter, and lasting memories.

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