Duane Allen Nicholson

Duane Allen Nicholson, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away at the age 61 on August 9, 2024, in Owensboro. Born on June 26, 1963, in Annapolis, Maryland, Duane was a beloved son of Gilbert “Nick” Nicholson Sr. and Mary Jane Sovko Nicholson.

A man of remarkable dedication and service, Duane proudly served his country in the United States Army for 9 years becoming a communications specialist, with deployments to Panama and Germany. Following his military service, he embarked on a distinguished career at Toyota in Princeton, IN, where he spent 27 years as a respected team leader, earning the admiration of all those he worked with.

Duane had a passion for the great outdoors, particularly the cherished moments spent hunting alongside his father, best friend Greg Shannon, and son-in-law Dane Johnston. Their shared experiences in the woods, searching for game and swapping stories around the campfire, created lasting memories that will be forever treasured by those who had the privilege of joining them.

In his leisure time, Duane found joy in riding his golf cart through the neighborhood, honing his culinary skills while cooking and smoking meat, and cheering on the University of Kentucky basketball team. He had a special fondness for fireworks displays on the 4th of July, delighting in orchestrating grand shows for everyone to enjoy.

Above all else, Duane held his family close to his heart, cherishing every moment spent in their company. Friday nights with his granddaughter, Amelia, were among his most cherished occasions, as they dined out, shared special treats like carnival cakes and chicken fingers from Lure, and reveled in each other’s company. 

Duane was preceded in death by his brother, Frank Nicholson; and his father, Gilbert “Nick” Nicholson Sr. 

Duane is survived by his wife, Michelle Nicholson; Michelle’s daughter, Allie (Dane) Johnston; son, Logan Nicholson; his mother, Mary Jane Sovko Nicholson; two sisters, Kim “Kooks” (John Emberton) Nicholson and Tracey “Boomer” Kimbley; grandchildren, Amelia Norelle Johnston and Hayden Reid Johnston; nieces, Megan (Ryan) Howe, and their children Tyler, Aiden, and Lily Ann, also Melissa Neal; nephew, Zach; great nephew, Ethan; his best friend, Greg Shannon; and his four legged companion, Macie.

A funeral service honoring Duane Nicholson's life will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, August 15, 2024, at Glenn Funeral Home and Crematory, with visitation starting at 10 a.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home. Duane will be laid to rest with full military honors in the Field of Honor at Owensboro Memorial Gardens.

Memories and condolences for the family of Duane Nicholson may be left at www.glenncares.com