Kenneth Wayne Nicholson

Wayne Nicholson, passed away on Saturday, May 10, 2025 at the age of 93. He was born on September 19, 1931 in Nowata to Slim and Neoma (Reed) Nicholson. He was one of 10 children, with his sister Mary Warren of LaCenter, Washington surviving him. Wayne served in Korea, having enlisted in the US Army, also serving in Japan, returning home in June of 1952. Wayne married Violet Gillman in 1956 and they would have celebrated their anniversary of 69 years this month. He retired in 1995 from Warburton Valve Shop, Coffeyville, as the Foreman and was proud that he received the Valve Man of the Year award two years in a row. He loved to deer hunt, coon hunt, and ride 4 wheelers, especially with his son Ed. He had a lot of friends to share time with, but the one that lasted 72 years without a fight (and not with his wife) was with J.P. Crupper.

He is survived by his wife Violet of the home; daughter Ronda West and her husband Lenard; four grandsons, Luke West, Kelsey Nicholson, Mike West, and Kyle Gillespie; sister, Mary Warren; as well as a host of great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Ed Nicholson; and 8 brothers and sisters. 

Graveside services will be held on Thursday, May 15, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. in the Mount Washington Cemetery, Lenapah. His grandson, Kyle Gillespie will officiate. 

Online condolences may be made at www.honoringmemoriesnowata.com or on the funeral home Facebook page. Arrangements are in the care of Benjamin Funeral Service of Nowata. 

The Nicholson family is asking for any donations to please send them to the Journey Home, Bartlesville.