James R. Nichols

CHICOPEE

James Raymond Nichols, age 79, of Chicopee, passed away from natural causes on Sunday, April 5, 2020 at the Holyoke Soldier’s Home. He was born in Holyoke, son of the late Nick and Helen (Dumkowski) Nichols, and lived most of his life in Chicopee. He earned a Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice. Jim was a Police Officer for the City of Chicopee for over 20 years, retiring as a Detective. He was the former owner of Don’s Den in Chicopee, and after his retirement he was involved with Connecticut Gourmet Coffee Company, running the Massachusetts Division for his brother-in-law Nick Bokron. Jim was a United States Navy Veteran, serving from 1958 to 1961. He was a proud member of the Greek Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity in Holyoke. He had a passion for vintage autos, was a member of the American Legion, a 32^nd Degree Mason, and a Shriner. His greatest loves were his family and his Greek heritage, and he visited Greece yearly when he was able. Besides his parents, James was predeceased by his “Yia Yia” Teresa and Nouno Mark Kandylakes. He is survived by his wife, Sophia “Sandy” (Bokron) Nichols; a son James R. Nichols, Jr., two daughters: Melissa Colberg and her husband Glenn, and Angela Graves and her husband David; 6 Grandchildren: Corina, Tanya, Cameron, Katrina, Caleb and Lilly; 3 brothers: Robert (Linda) Nichols and family, Tom Nichols, and Charlie Glimenakis; a sister, Jewell Anderson (Jack) and family; and many nieces and nephews. Jim also leaves many wonderful friends at the Soldiers Home, and the friends he enjoyed being with for his days on earth. Funeral Service and Military Honors will be held on Tuesday, June 9, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. in the back lot of the Barry J. Farrell Funeral Home, 2049 Northampton Street in Holyoke.  Burial is private. Mask and social distancing required.  Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice. Barry J. Farrell Funeral Home in Holyoke is handling arrangements.

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