Joseph Nicholas, 85

Joseph T. Nicholas, beloved husband, father, grandfather and servant to his community, passed away peacefully on December 1, 2024, at the age of 85, due to complications from pulmonary fibrosis. He was born on July 29, 1939, in Spokane, Washington, to W.A. and Margaret Nicholas.

Joe dedicated his life to public service and making a positive impact on those around him. After graduating from St. Martin’s High School in Lacey, Washington, in 1958, he joined the United States Army in 1961, where he trained as a medic. He later earned a degree from St. Martin’s College in 1966. 

In 1967, Joe began his career with the Seattle Police Department, where he served with distinction until his retirement in 1994. Over the years, Joe held various roles, including patrolman, detective, polygraph examiner, hypnosis specialist, background investigator and Police Explorer advisor. His commitment to youth was recognized with the prestigious Silver Beaver Award from the Boy Scouts of America.

After retiring, Joe moved to Bonners Ferry, Idaho, where he continued his mission of service. In 2001, he was ordained a deacon in the Catholic Church after completing a four-year program at Loyola University. He devoted the next 23 years to serving the faithful in Idaho, as well as in Lacey and Deer Park, where he remained a deacon until his passing. 

Joe is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Lorraine Fosbre Nicholas; his children, Timothy (Doreen) and Robert (Angela); his grandchildren, Ryan and Meghan; and his great-grandsons, Arrow and Ovando. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him for his unwavering faith, kindness and devotion to others. 

A rosary service will be held at 6 p.m. on Friday, December 13, at St. Mary Presentation Catholic Church, 602 E. 6th St., Deer Park, Washington, with a Mass of Christian Burial to be held on Saturday, December 14 at 11 a.m. at the same location. Interment will follow at Holy Redeemer Cemetery. A reception will be held at the Deer Park Eagles following the services. 

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Deaconess Hospital, particularly nurses Kaitie, Rachael and Michael, for their exceptional care and support. 

To view and sign Joe’s online guestbook, please visit Deer Park’s Lauer Funeral Home, lauerfuneral.com.