Aug 6, 2002 2 min read

Robert L. Nichols, age 72, of Hopwood, Pa., passed away Saturday, August 3, 2002, in the Uniontown Hospital Emergency Room. He was born August 13, 1929, in Grindstone, Pa., the son of James Nichols and Anna Glasglo Nichols.

“Bob” was currently South Union Township Tax Collector, the office he has held for the past 24 years.

He was the former owner of Contemporary World Furniture and former Manager of Cohen Furniture (both stores were located in downtown Uniontown on Beeson Boulevard).

“Bob” was a Veteran who served in the United States Army.

He had been elected to the Big Ten Fayette County Hall of Fame, was the present Professional Baseball Scout for the Detroit Tigers, and previously scouted for the Pittsburgh Pirates, Cincinnati Reds, and the New York Mets.

“Bob” was a former Coach with the Laurel Highlands Baseball Team, was a dedicated and loyal supporter of all Laurel Highlands sporting teams, and a supporter of the Challenger Baseball League.

He was a member of General George C. Marshall AMVETS Post 103 in Hopwood, V. F. W. Post 47 and American Legion Post 51 both in Uniontown, Pa., Hutchinson Sportsmen’s Club, and B. P.O. Elks.

Two sisters, Helen Louise Doyle and Lena Conklin, a brother, Jimmy Junior Nichols, and parents preceded him in death. He was the last surviving member of his immediate family.

He is survived by is beloved wife of 53 years, Geraldine “Jeri” Hager Nichols; his loving daughter, Donna L. Kowalsky of Hopwood; and his beloved granddaughter whom he cherished, Kara Kowalsky. He is also survived by many friends.

Friends will be received in the STEPHEN E. KEZMARSKY III FUNERAL HOME AT 71 PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE, UNIONTOWN, Pa., today from 2 to 9 p.m. and Wednesday until 9 a.m., when a blessing service will be held.

A Mass of Christian burial follows at 9:30 a.m., in St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church, Old Walnut Hill Road, Uniontown, with the Rev. Fr. Alexander J. Pleban as celebrant.

Interment will follow in Mount Macrina Cemetery, Uniontown, where military honors will be accorded by General George C. Marshall AMVETS Post 103.

Donations may be made to the Uniontown Public Library or the National Kidney Foundation.