Obituary of Christopher David Nichols

RIPLEY, NY - Christopher David Nichols, age 41, of Hampton, VA, formerly of Ripley, NY died tragically on Sunday, November 17, 2013 at VCU Medical Center of Richmond, VA. Chris was born on December 18, 1971 in Erie, PA, a son of Roxana (Johnston) Johnson of Ripley and the late David L. Nichols. A 1990 graduate of Ripley Central School, Chris was active in sports and was selected as Male Athlete of the year in his Senior year. Chris moved to Newport News, Virginia after he became a paraplegic from a serious car accident in 1993. He went to work for the Newport News Shipbuilders at a time when they were beginning to build the USS Ronald Regan. He was proud to be part of the design team of that ship, and witnessed the Christening and Launch presided over by former First Lady, Mrs. Nancy Regan. He received his Drafting degree from Triangle Tech in Erie, PA and went on to study advanced drafting at Thomas Nelson College in Newport News, VA. Chris enjoyed many sports. He was a big fan of hockey, especially the Washington Capitals, the Erie Otters and the Norfolk Admirals. He was also a very independent and proud man who loved being with his family and many friends. Survivors include his mother Roxana (Johnston) Johnson of Ripley, his two brothers: Michael (Kim Dixon) Nichols of Erie, PA, and Marc Nichols of Hampton, VA. Chris is also survived by his niece and nephew, Shandi and Austin Nichols of North East, PA, his Aunt, Donna (Richard) Wade, his Aunt, Rebecca (William) Pratt, his Uncle, David (Christine) Johnston and his good friends, Bob (Linda) Frasier and Grant Gieger of Newport News, as well as his many cousins and friends around the Country. He was preceded in death by his Father, David L. Nichols, his Paternal Grandparents, Ted and Willa Miaczynski, and his Maternal Grandparents, Donald and Frances Johnston. Friends may call on Friday, November 22 from 6-8 PM at the MASON Funeral Home, 37 Clinton Street, Westfield, NY, and are invited to attend the Funeral Services there at 11:00 am on Saturday, November 23, 2013 with Rev. Donald Eggleston officiating. Private burial will be in Quincy Rural Cemetery, Ripley, NY. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the family. Log on to www.masonfuneral.com to send Chris' family a message of sympathy.