John Robert Nichols, Jr.

John Robert Nichols Jr passed away May 28, 2020 at the age of 98 at RiverMead Life Care in Peterborough, NH.

He was born July 30, 1921 in Newton, MA, son of John R and Alice Burt Berry Nichols.  John had 4 siblings, all deceased:  Esther Clarke, Helen Atwell, Henry W Nichols, and Burt Nichols.  John graduated from MIT in 1944 and served in the US Navy, 1944-45. He enjoyed a career in mechanical engineering, starting at Jones and Lamson, Springfield  VT and retiring from The MITRE Corp, Bedford, MA.

In 1944, John married the love of his life Laura F Littlefield (deceased 2018). They raised 4 daughters: Holly Raymond (deceased 2018), Marcia Margiotta (deceased 2007), Ann Durand, and Alice McLane.

John and Laura enjoyed an active life including sailing, skiing, hiking, bridge, bible study, going to symphony, and family gatherings. They lived in Springfield VT, Lexington MA, Arlington VA, and Jackson, Wolfeboro & Peterborough NH.

John was kind, honest, trustworthy and gentle.  He loved to be helpful. He was known for his organizational, mechanical, inventive, and problem-solving skills.  John enjoyed playing piano and singing. He was very well-loved.

He is survived by 6 grandchildren:  Kevin Mocklin, Julie Lawrence, John Ballou, Jannica Paraschiv, Laura Bennett, and Carrie Burkett and their spouses.  He has 10 great grandchildren: Matthew & Joshua Mocklin, Kristen Morrill, Kara Ballou, Elias & Simon Lawrence, Willow & Idolyn Bennett, and Isabelle & Vivien Paraschiv.

A memorial service is not planned at this time due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, but family will place his ashes in the family memorial at Mount Auburn Cemetery, Cambridge, MA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your favorite charity or organization.