Martinez, California

Bill Nichols passed away peacefully at home in Martinez, California, on December 14, 2024, after a brave year-long fight with cancer. Surrounded by his loving family, he left a legacy of dedication, service, and kindness.

He was preceded in death by his granddaughter Helena and several loyal dogs he considered family. He is survived by his wife, Linda; children Chris (Shawna), Emily (Dalton), Sam (Ami), and Meghan (Franco); grandchildren Dominic, Sam, Reese, Tommy, and Miles; and siblings Steve, John, and Mary.

Bill was born on February 26, 1947, at Saint Mary’s Hospital in San Francisco. He spent his early years in Port Chicago, a place he often called the perfect spot to grow up, especially because of the time he spent with his grandmother, “Granny Nich.” In 1953, his family moved to Martinez. He spent the days of his youth running with friends affectionately known as the “Rankin Raiders,” playing sandlot baseball, swimming at Rankin Park, and sneaking into the State Theatre. He played football and baseball at Alhambra High School and earned the nickname “Mott Nich,” which stuck with him for life.

In 1964, Bill joined the United States Marine Corps and served in Vietnam until 1968 as part of the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division. After finishing his service, he returned home to Martinez and attended Diablo Valley College using the GI Bill. That’s where he met Linda, and they married in 1978. They raised their family in Martinez, where Bill coached their sports teams, kept stats, volunteered at swim meets, and supported his kids in all activities.

In 1981, he began working for the East Bay Regional Park District and became a Park Supervisor and Fire Lieutenant. Over the next 34 years, he helped open and care for several parks, with the Martinez Shoreline being his favorite. He also responded to major emergencies, including the Oakland Firestorm of 1991, an event that left a deep impression on him. He often shared lessons from that day with his family and community.

After retiring, Bill stayed active by coaching and cheering on his grandchildren at their games. He spent hours at the Martinez Shoreline taking photos, watching wildlife, and enjoying nature. He was also an avid reader who visited the library often. Friendly and approachable, Bill made a lasting impact on everyone he met.

Bill’s life was defined by his love for family, service to others, and connection to the outdoors. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy lives on in the people and places he touched. His connection to the land is best captured by author Pam Houston: “When you give yourself wholly to a piece of ground, its goodness enters your bloodstream like an infusion.

You will never be alone the same way again and never quite dislocated. Your heart will grow down and into and back out of that ground like a tree.”

A spring memorial service will be held to celebrate Bill’s life.