Catherine Nichols

Catherine Rose Nichols, 93 died quietly at Saint Raphael's Hosp. in New Haven on Friday, April 2, surrounded by her family. She is survived by her husband of 66 years, R. Richard "Dick"Nichols. SHe is also survived by her four children: Barbara Nichols of Hamden, Mark Nichols of New Haven, Rosemary Nichols of Branford and Denise Nichols of Hamden. Catherine also leaves a daughter in law, Denise Botto, two granddaughters, Carmella and Katherine Nicholas, all of New Haven, as well as two sisters in law, Ann McGovern Canning og Guilford and Eleanor Nichols DeFresne of Michigan. SHe leaves many loving nieces and nephews in Connecticut, Michigan, and California. Catherine is also survived by two "adopted" family members, Anne Marie Menta of Hamden and Elyse Greenberg of Brisgeport. Catherine "Kay" Nichols was predeceased by three siblings: Molly Canning, Ann Canning Rogers and James Canning Jr. She was the loving daughter of Maryellen Walpole Canning and James Canning, Sr. both Irish immigrants. Kay graduated from Commercial High School (New Haven) in 1933. After raising her children, she was employed as an executive secretary at Southern Connecticut State University where she was a beloved staff member until she retired at 79. Kay volunteered at Saint Rapahel's Hospital and was a founding member of the local chapter of NAMI (National Alliance on Mentally Ill). Kay was the loving center of her family and caregiver, confidant and best friend to many, including her pets. SHe loved music and dancing and was a member of the Blessed Sacrament CHurch Choir for many years. She was an avid reader, with a great sense of humor and love of life. Well into her seventies she traveled to Costa Rica where her granddaughters were born, played volleyball with family and friends, and danced with her daughters at Boppers in New Haven. Kay had a big smile and a big heart and will be sorely misssed by her devoted husband Dick, her family, friends and caregivers at the Mary Wade Home. Donations may be made in her honor to the Mary Wade Home, 118 Clinton Ave, New Haven, Ct. 06513. Funeral from Sisk Brothers Funeral Home, 3105 Whitney Ave., Hamden, Wednesday morning at 9:30. Mass of Christian Burial in Our Lady of Mt Carmel Church at l0:00. Burial will follow in All Saints Cemetery, Friends may call Tuesday from 4 to 8 pm.

Catherine Nichols

June 14, 1916 - April 2, 2010