George S. Nicholas Sr., 83

George S. Nicholas Sr., 83, passed away on Tuesday, March 4, 2008, at the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls. George was born on Sept. 19, 1924, in Baltimore, to Thomas and Maude (Lamphere) Nicholas.

He lived in Baltimore, until he was 12 years old, then moved to Miami where he attended school, until enlisting in the U.S. Army where he served in Normandy, northern France and in Central Europe. He received the Good Conduct Medal and a Victory Medal.

After World War II, he returned to Denver, where he worked as a roofing contractor for several years.

In 1956, he moved to Montana and, in 1965, he bought the Fort Peck Cafe and Hotel. When George was 60 years old, he became a licensed real estate salesman for Heather Gardens Realty in Denver.

George married Connie I. Nicholas in Miami.

While living in Fort Peck, George became the mayor of the newly incorporated city. He also served as the State Chamber president, and had been the past exalted ruler with the BPOE.

He loved hunting, fishing and was a very good horseman.

George was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Connie I. Nicholas; and a brother, Carrol R. Nicholas.

He is survived by his children — daughter, Darlynn Nicholas; daughter, Sunnie Paulson, and husband, J.P.; daughter, Tana Rae, and husband, Dave; son, George S. Nicholas Jr., and his wife Tami; daughter, Cheri Nicholas; a brother, Wilson Cary Nicholas; nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Viewing will be from 9 a.m. until noon today, March 5, at Buffalo Hill Funeral Home. A Mass of the Resurrection will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, March 6, at St. Richard's Catholic Church in Columbia Falls, with the Rev. John Miller officiating. Urn burial will follow at the Montana Veterans Cemetery in Columbia Falls, with the United Veterans of the Flathead Valley doing military honors. A reception will follow the urn burial back at St. Richard's Catholic Church.

Buffalo Hill Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the family,.