Thomas (“Tom”, “Tommy”) Walter Nicholson, Jr.,

62, of Indianapolis, departed this life at his home on Thanksgiving Day, November 23, 2023. A man whose loyalty knew no bounds, Tom was a loving husband, father, brother and friend. Tommy brightened the lives of all who knew him with his kindness, wisdom and trademark sense of humor. He will be remembered as a devoted family man, enthusiastic dancer, and truly great storyteller, who lit up every room and never passed up an opportunity to have fun. 

Born on April 28, 1961 in Dover, New Jersey, Tom was the beloved son of the late Thomas Walter & Phyllis (Hartnett) Nicholson. After earning his Bachelor of Science from Xavier University and MBA from Pepperdine, Tom built a successful career in the optical industry. He worked in several roles, rising from top sales rep to leading a nationwide Corporate Accounts team at CooperVision. Widely admired as a natural leader and beloved by his team, Tom led by example - working tirelessly while prioritizing compassion and mentorship. His genuine interest in others, manifested at times through his countless questions, exemplified his desire to help, leaving an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to cross paths with him.

Tom’s heart was as vast as Lake Geneva, where he cherished his childhood memories and continued to visit faithfully throughout his life, often spending hours sitting on his dad’s porch staring at the lake. He lived life to the fullest through travel, Chicago Bears and Indianapolis Colts games, and most of all, times spent with family and friends. He was a joy to be around and his warmth extended to everyone he met, effortlessly making them feel at ease.

Tom was happiest simply being present with his loved ones - especially his wife of 38 years Angelina (Martinez); children Quinn Nicholson (Liz Myers), Reilly Bell (Kevin) and soon-to-be-born granddaughter; sisters Kathryn Tuten (Tim), Mary Nicholson-Beresid (David, children Sam & Dani); mother-in-law Mary Martinez (Enrique); siblings-in-law Maria Ferraris (Alessandro), Trish Martinez, Mario Martinez, and his beloved Black Labs (Grizzly, Indy, Mac, Muskie, and currently, “Big Wally”).

In honoring Tom's memory, let us carry forward his legacy of loyalty, hard work, and the art of making others feel valued. As we bid farewell, may we remember him not with sorrow but with gratitude for the privilege of sharing our lives with such a remarkable family member, friend and colleague. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to OneSight EssilorLuxottica Foundation (https://onesight.essilorluxottica.com/give). A celebration of life will be held in the Indianapolis area in late January (Details to be provided soon). Condolences may be shared at www.leppertmortuarynora.com

Online condolences available at www.leppertmortuary.com

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/indianapolis-in/thomas-nicholson-11552879