Robert M. Nicol

Robert Mathew Nicol, 79, of Petoskey died at home on December 16, 2018 after a courageous battle with leukemia. His family was at his side.

On March 24, 1939 Bob was born in Saginaw, MI to Jane and Mathew Nicol. He married Mary Ellen (Ellie) Rea in 1962.

Bob graduated from Saginaw High School. He exceled at diving and was awarded a diving scholarship to Michigan State University. He graduated with a degree in residential construction and worked in the industry until achieving his dream of moving to Petoskey in 1983. In 1986 he and Ellie opened a pottery studio and art gallery. Together these life partners produced pottery until his retirement in 2001.

Bob loved the water, especially sailing; however, he was most fulfilled with a tool in his hand. He and his son Tim cherished many hours working together on Tim’s cottage. Bob had a servant’s heart. He was an Eagle Scout, he served on the Township board and was a lifelong blood donor. He was devoted to God and his church, serving in leadership and many other capacities over the years. Anyone who knew Bob can recall a time when he was there to help.

Bob is survived by his wife of 56 years, Ellie, his daughter Penny (Lisa) Nicol, and son Tim (Brenda) Nicol, four granddaughters, four great grandchildren, and his sister Betty (Jerry) Wendling.

Visitation will be held at New Life Anglican Church, 219 State Street, Petoskey, MI on Saturday, December 29 at 10am. Funeral service will follow at 11am.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to New Life Anglican Church, Bob Nicol Memorial. Friends wishing to share condolences or memories are encouraged to do so online at www.gaylordfuneralhome.com.