To All,

It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Pararescueman Larry D. Nicholson on Oct 7, 2020.  Larry joined the Air Force in 1966. After basic he entered Pararescue training in PJ class 68-2.  Larry graduated as honor graduate in Nov 67. Subsequently, in December of 1967 he shipped off to Jungle Survival School in the Philippines with a follow-on assignment to BIN TUY, SEA in Jan 1968.  Larry participated in several combat lifesaving missions on HH-43s Pedro and HH-3s Jolly Green. For his actions he received the Distinguished Flying Cross with Oak Leaf Cluster for Heroism, Air Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster and numerous other medals and decorations.

In Dec 1968, he was assigned Hamilton AFB, CA.  Larry then married his sweetheart, Sonya Proctor, on 28 Dec 1968.   After a year, he received an early-out for college and moved to Eureka, CA where he attended Humboldt State University completing his Bachelor’s Degree in Wildlife Management.  In 1974, Larry and Sonya moved to Kodiak, AK, where Larry began his 20-year career with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.  During his time with ADF&G, he was a pilot, diver, and fisheries biologist.  From 1984 until his retirement, Larry was the Regional Supervisor for Southwest Commercial Fisheries Division, which encompassed Kodiak, and the Alaska Peninsula.

Larry’s true joy came with the birth of his two children, Shane and Jennifer, and he spent all of his time away from work fostering a home full of joy and adventure.  He gave 110% to his family and showed tremendous love, pride and encouragement in everything they did.  He was extremely loyal to his family and friends and will be missed by all who knew him.

Larry is survived by his wife of 51 years, Sonya Nicholson, brother Dennis Nicholson and his wife Carolyn, his son, Shane Nicholson and wife Kendra, his daughter Jennifer McMillan and her husband Reid, and grandchildren, Ashleigh and Trent Nicholson and Hunter and Madison McMillan.  He was also blessed to have numerous loving family members and friends.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date but his memory will forever live in the hearts of those that loved him. Larry requested his remains to be cremated and with a private family ceremony interned with passed family members in California.

Condolences can be emailed to his wife, Sonya Nicholson, PO Box 1262, Sterling AK. 99642

Phone 907-394-5820

Some of us did not know Larry or just met him in passing with a hand shake. Those that worked with and knew him hold him in high regard as a warrior PJ, who now joins the squadron of PJ Rescue Angels who have made their final jump.

When one of our PJ brothers passes he takes a piece of our hearts with him. It would be immensely appreciated if those who have stories would call Sonya with your remembrances.

John Pighini

Vice President, PJ Assn.