Obituary of Thomas Luke Nickolich

Thomas Luke Nickolich, Jr., 92, long time resident of Fairmont, WV but more recently of Lynchburg, VA passed away on Friday, June 7, 2024 at the hospice house in Bedford. He was born on Wednesday, October 14, 1931 to the late Thomas L. Nickolich, Sr. & Julia Barbaric Nickolich. He was also preceded in death by a son, Thomas Edward Nickolich and a sister, Barbara Estelle Nickolich.

Tom graduated from Fairmont Senior High School in 1949 before serving in the United States Marine Corp during the Korean War. He received a National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal and a United Nations Service Medal. After returning from Japan, he completed his BS degree in Business at Fairmont State College in less than four years. In 1960, he began work as a salesman for Kimberly Clark Corporation and stayed with them for 34 ½ years. He was still friends with many of his KC coworkers. Tom was a member of Fleming Memorial United Presbyterian Church in Fairmont, WV. At the time of his death, he was the member that had been on Flemings’ roll the longest.

He enjoyed going to kids/grandkids sporting events, traveling (Hawaii, Alaska, Ireland and to Budva, Montenegro), day trading, gardening, tending a small vineyard and making homemade wine with Niko Ilich, and doing yardwork. Tom loved spending time with his friends and family. Tom was a caregiver to three family members prior to taking care of his wife, Suzie, for the past 7 years. She now resides at the Bedford County Nursing Home near Mary Beth.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Suzanne Virginia Nickolich; daughters, Mary Beth Nickolich and Martha Ann Polizzi; granddaughter, Maria Ann Polizzi and her husband, Sean Rost; grandson, Zachary Thomas Polizzi; step-granddaughters, Jamie Lilley & Brandie Lilley Kearney & her husband, Jordan; great-grandson, Ethan Kearney.

There will be a service at a later date in Fairmont, WV with interment at Janes Memorial Cemetery.

Donations may be made to the American Cancer Society (800-227-2345) or Fleming Memorial Presbyterian Church (304-366-3848).

Arrangements are being handled by Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Bedford.