Charles and Harriet Nichols

Coopersville Observer, May 29, 1941

Charles Nichols passed away at Muskegon last Sunday afternoon, at the home of his son, Clayton, where he had made his home for the last two or three years, since the death of Mrs. Nichols. They had made their home here for a good many years, though not here all the time. Mr. Nichols was born in 1845 at Rutledge, Vermont, but came to Michigan in his youth. His enlistment in the Federal forces for the Civil War was made at Grand Rapids on February 15, 1864. His home since Civil War days has been in western Michigan, either at Leroy, in Osceola County, or at Marne or Coopersville. It was very interesting at times to hear him tell of the early days in this section, and of his experiences in woods and fields here.

Living here for many years, he was one of those who rarely missed the observance of the Memorial Day here, and for the last two years since the number of veterans was reduced to two, he was here on each occasion. His body was brought to the Kammeraad Funeral Home here and the services were held here Wednesday afternoon, the Rev. Victor Niles being in charge of the last service. Burial was in the Coopersville cemetery.

He is survived by a daughter, Mrs. Dick Van Raalte, of Spring Lake, and by the son, Clayton, at Muskegon; by 20 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.

The passing of Mr. Nichols reduces to one the number of veterans of the Civil War living here. That one is John M. Park, who is still strong and healthy, although he passed his 92^nd birth anniversary during the past few months. It is said that there are only about 60 Civil War veterans still living in Michigan.

(Mr. Nichols served in the 16^th Michigan Infantry.)