Thomas Andrew Nicholson

Thomas Andrew Nicholson was born on October 15, 1956, to Jack and Gloria Nicholson. He passed away peacefully in Kirkland on July 24, 2026, after a courageous battle with ALS. He spent his entire life north of Seattle, first in Shoreline, then Lake Forest Park, and finally, in Snohomish. He graduated from Shorecrest High School in 1974 and spent a brief time working at Safeway before beginning the career he aspired to as a Boeing machinist.

Thom worked on many different Boeing airplane models, and was responsible for plumbing and hydraulics, among other skilled tasks. Ultimately, he became an inspector, and his deep knowledge and attention to detail were greatly valued. Boeing hasn’t been the same since Thom retired in 2019.

Thom, like his father and grandfather, was happiest when he was “building stuff.” His first project was grading the family’s large, wooded lot with his Tonka trucks – when one patch was graded, his play area would be moved to the next location in the yard. He moved on to woodworking and metalwork as an adult, and his creativity and skill has over the years provided family and friends with beautiful wood vases, utensils, and other impressive works. He was also generous with his time helping others to build decks, hardscape, and lots of other things. Thom was popular at family events not only because of his good nature and humor, but because of the delicious food he would bring. Thom loved being outdoors and was in his element among his fellow collectors at swap meets, thrift shops, and sales where his keen eye helped him amass an impressive collection of tools, antique equipment and vintage cars. 

Thom never married, but his “kids” were a succession of Australian Cattle Dogs, to whom he gave his love as well as the best care, training, and attention. Thom is survived by his siblings, Nancy Nicholson Potter, Ken Overstreet, Karen Overstreet (John Reed), and Karla Wood (Gary), nieces Jana Carlson (Rob) and Sonja Hill, and nephews Will Reed (Tess) and John Kenneth Reed. A big man with a generous and giant heart, Thom will be lovingly remembered by all who knew him and to whom he generously gave of himself over the years.

A private celebration of Thom’s life will be held at a date to be determined in the future. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate that donations be made in Thom’s name to The ALS Association, ALS.org.