Rod Nicholson, 85, of Ajax, Ontario, suddenly passed away on September 14th at Lakeridge Ajax Hospital. He was born to Rena and Sam Nicholson, in Glenarm, Ontario.
As a young man, he moved to Toronto. He married his first wife, Audrey, in 1957, and they raised four children. He became a first-class auto mechanic. He continued looking for other career opportunities, and in 1966, he joined the Toronto Police Services and worked there until he retired in 2000. He worked in various capacities, finishing his career in the Employee Assistance Program.
He married his second wife, Diane, in 1981. They built a great life together and took great pride in their grandchildren. After retirement, they continued spending time at their trailer with their dog, Rocky. In retirement, he worked for the Toronto Police Association, supporting police officers who needed assistance. He received many commendations and awards, including the Queens Diamond Jubilee Medal.
As a longtime member of Alcoholics Anonymous, Rod was known for making a significant contribution to the lives of his fellow members. He lived a life of service and was known for supporting people in their struggle with alcoholism.
He was generous in sharing his time and his finances with others. He received special recognition from World Vision for his charitable giving to end poverty for children worldwide. He was also passionate about animals, golfing, gardening and brightening the world around him. He had a penchant for nice clothing, especially suits and liked to dress up and go out. Rod was lucky in love. In 2011, he met Terry, and they married in 2012. Together, they built a great life that involved serving in many leadership and community roles. They were proud cat-parents to the Duke and Duchess. Sadly, during their time together, Rod needed more care and was grateful for the care that Terry provided him during these years.
Rod leaves behind his loving wife, Terry, his brothers, Bill (Sally) and John (Angela), and his sister Catherine and his children, Debra (Brent), Sheree (Tom), Sandra (Peter) and Steven (Samantha). He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Richard, Heather, Alyssa, Margaux, and Lindsay, his great-grandchildren, Jasmine, Jayda, Jace, Brennan, Bianca-Alix, and many good friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife Diane, their granddaughter Mikaela and his brother-in- law, Terry.
Everyone is welcome to join the family at either of the following events.
October 6th-
Inurnment at Glenarm Cemetery
499 Fenel Rd, Woodville, ON K0M 2T0
3:00 pm
November 2, 2024
Celebration of Life at
the Alano Club,
200 Thornton Rd N, Oshawa, ON L1J 6T8
from 1 - 4 pm.
Messages of Condolence
Rod was always the gentle giant for me. Each time we met he would fill my ears with humour and my soul with laughter. He will be greatly m...
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Rod was always the gentle giant for me. Each time we met he would fill my ears with humour and my soul with laughter. He will be greatly missed.
Ken Wood McCracken’s Landing October 06, 2024
Ken Wood McCracken’s Landing October 06, 2024
Rod was a gentle giant with a warm sense of humour. He was a great example of Service - always putting his hand up and out. I am Grateful ...
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Rod was a gentle giant with a warm sense of humour. He was a great example of Service - always putting his hand up and out. I am Grateful our paths crossed. Rest in Peace my Friend.
Frank East York September 27, 2024
Frank East York September 27, 2024
Rod was a delightful gentleman with a big heart and heartwarming smile! RIP Dear Man
Yvonne B Whitby Ont September 27, 2024
Rod’s spirit filled the room. He was truly larger than life. A meeting was alway better when I got to sit beside Rod. He will be truly mis...
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Rod’s spirit filled the room. He was truly larger than life. A meeting was alway better when I got to sit beside Rod. He will be truly missed and never forgotten.
Wayne Einhorn Nipissing ON September 26, 2024
Wayne Einhorn Nipissing ON September 26, 2024
Rod came to live with my family when I was 4 and he was 16. Rod was like a big brother to me and I loved him and will miss him dearly.
Ted Wood Uxbridge September 24, 2024
To Sheree, Tom, Margaux, Brennan & family, I am very sorry for your loss. Such a lovely tribute. Sending love and hugs. xo
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