Frederick T. Nichols ’63

Rick Nichols died Aug. 16, 2010, in Greenfield, Mass. He had been in failing health for several years, suffering from complications of diabetes and related problems. Leslie and Norman James ’63 managed his care during his last few months.

Rick came to us from Wayland, Mass., via St. George’s School in Rhode Island, where he won academic prizes in Latin and French. At Princeton his concentration was in French (writing a thesis on Albert Camus), and he ate at Cloister Inn. He taught French in Connecticut and the Boston area before moving to Cape Cod and ultimately to Greenfield.

Rick will be remembered for his mordant wit and insight. Unfortunately, the twin diseases of alcohol and drug addiction whittled away at his potential, and he spent most of his later years adrift in a life increasingly isolated from accomplishments, family, and friends. Yet, to the end he remained alert and acute in his perceptions regarding those around him and regarding his own life. A fund is being established in his name to assist young addicts.  

For more information, contact Norman James at pitcairntours@mail.com.