BUXTON- John Hays Nicely, 83, formerly of Cape Elizabeth, died as he lived, peacefully at his home with his family by his side.
He was born in Portland, Maine on Oct. 8, 1937, a son of the late Charles and Adele (Cote) Nicely and is a Cheverus High School graduate.
John proudly served in the U.S. Army. In the 1960’s he was stationed in Panama with the First Infantry Division.
John was employed by Northern Utilities for 40 years. He worked for them as a Pipefitter, Meter Reader, and retired as the top New England Commercial Salesman for natural gas at the age of 59. If you were ever in the car with him, he would be sure to point out all his accounts!
John was known to be a kind man. He was humble. He loved all kinds of art. This included painting, carving, furniture making, sketching and gardening . He also enjoyed fishing, hunting, and camping with his boys when they were young. John’s true passion in life was his beloved family and teaching the importance of getting right with God.
John was a member of the Grace Bible Church. Over the years he led prayer groups, and bible studies.
John loved flying. At the age of 18, he got his Pilot's license after his father taught him to fly. He loved going to any airplane shows and got as excited as a little child. He forever talked about flying and getting another airplane with his grandson, Dylan. When medical conditions prevented him from flying, he played simulated games on his computer.
He is predeceased by his beloved wife Mary whom he wed on May 7, 1966; and siblings- Ann Bolling and Felgar Nicely.
John is survived by his children- Lee Nicely and his wife Michelle of Buxton, Timothy Nicely of Buxton and Katie Nicely of South Portland; siblings- Alice DeDoes of Old Orchard Beach, Lee Nicely of Gorham, and Keith Nicely of Gorham; and grandchildren- Dylan and Madalyn.
Visiting hours will be held on Tuesday June 8 from 5 – 7 PM at the Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Service Chapel, 498 Long Plains Road (Rt. 22) in Buxton. A service will immediately follow at the funeral home at 7 PM.
Burial will be held at the Southern Maine Veterans Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Grace Bible Church, P.O. Box 698, Gorham, Maine 04038.
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