Irwin “Nick” Carlysle Nichols, age 88, and Mary Francis Nichols nee Hoffner age 68 of Palatine, Illinois and Southport, Maine passed away on Sept. 19 and 27, 2022, respectively. After nearly 47 years of marriage, they did not want to be without each other.

Nick was born Jan. 18, 1934, in Boston, Massachusetts and Mary was born Sept. 20, 1954, in St. Louis, Missouri. Nick was predeceased by his parents Irwin and Doris (nee Robinson) Nichols, his sister Linda Mitchel, and his daughter April Jones. He is survived by his beloved children: Rad (Paulette) Nichols, Neil Nichols, Lysle (Suzanne Leopoldi-Nichols) Nichols and his adored grandchildren Sarah (Alex) Cowden, Danielle Nichols (Aaron McLeod); Nathan, Albert, and Rachel Leopoldi-Nichols; his treasured great-grandsons Henry and Oliver Cowden; and his darling half-sister Carla (Kelby) Marlett, and cherished niece Kendra Marlett.

Mary was predeceased by her parents David and Mary Hoffner and siblings Kathleen, David, Michael, and Mary E. She is survived by her beloved sister Donna (Henry) Short and brother John Hoffner; her cherished nieces and nephews Heather, Tyler, Michele, Shawna, Jessica, John Jr., Cathleen, Christopher, Eric, and Jami; her great-nieces and treasured great-nephews Jace, Lilly, Jameson, Gavin, Grant, Gage, Madison, Garrett, Ava, Aidan, Emilia, Allison, and Bodhi.

Nick joined the United States Air Force and became a pilot at an early age. He retired his military career from the United States Air National Guard as Major. Thereafter, Nick flew for United Airlines for 30 fabulous years. In retirement, Nick’s and Mary’s passions were buying, restoring, and selling antiques; and building an addition to their cottage in Maine, where they spent extended summer months enjoying their beautiful community. Their family and friends will dearly miss their loquaciousness and storytelling.

A private service will be held at a future date. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity.