Ralph W. Nichols

Brookfield, MA / Solon, ME – Ralph W. Nichols Sr, 85, died peacefully on Saturday, March 14, 2020 at Quaboag Rehabilitation and Skilled Care Center surrounded by his loving family.

He leaves his wife of 64 years, Jane s. (Rice) Nichols of Brimfield: a son, Ralph Nichols Jr. and his wife Bonnie of Brimfield; two daughters, Catherine Dayhoff of West Brookfield and Deborah Nichols of Sterling: three sisters, Gail Michieletti of Arizona, Linda Adams of Florida, and Joyce Martin of California; 4 grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild and several nieces and nephews. Ralph was predeceased by his brother Gary Nichols and his sister Bernice Dougherty. He was born in East Brookfield, son of the late Julius A. and Mary (Boulette) Nichols and lived Brookfield for 65 years before retiring and moving to Solon, Maine.

Ralph was a Welder for the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority for 20 years, prior to that he served as Chief of Police for the Town of Brookfield for 15 years.

He was a United States Navy Veteran of the Korean War.

In his spare time, he enjoyed hunting and fishing. Most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family and close friends. He will be missed.

The family wishes to extend our sincere thanks to the nurses and PCA’s at Quaboag Rehabilitation and Skilled Care, specifically to those that went the extra mile for his care and comfort.

A Graveside Service with Military Honors will be held in the Brookfield Cemetery in the spring.  There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Alzheimer Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave, Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601.

Varnum Funeral Home, Inc., 43 East Main St., in West Brookfield is assisting his family with arrangements..

For updated service information or to sign the online guest book please visit varnumfuneralhome.com.

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