Genevieve M. (Campbell) Nichols' Obituary
Genevieve M. (Desormeaux/Campbell) Nichols, age 82, passed away on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on October 9, 1943, in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, to Gerald “Jerry” and Eugina (Benoit) Desormeaux. Genevieve graduated from Loretto Catholic Central High School with the Class of 1963, where she was fondly remembered for her generous spirit—and for occasionally preparing luncheons for the nuns, which sometimes earned her a missed class or two. From a young age, Gen developed exceptional seamstress skills, creating clothing not only for herself but also for friends and family. She dedicated more than 20 years to the food service industry, beginning in the 1970s at Red Owl and Lake Superior State University in Sault Ste. Marie, and later at Delta College in Saginaw, where she retired in 2001. On April 18, 1987, she married James Nichols Sr. Together they shared 31 years filled with love, laughter, and countless adventures. Their travels took them across the United States and abroad, as they embraced the beauty and experiences the world had to offer. Following retirement, they settled in Alanson, Michigan, where they built lasting friendships within their community. Gen especially cherished time spent sharing meals and playing cards with neighbors along the river. A faithful servant of the Lord, Genevieve was raised Catholic and most recently continued her spiritual journey at Cedar Creek Alliance Chapel. She expressed her faith through service, volunteering at the soup kitchen, church pantry, and the Challenge Mountain Resale Store. She was also a proud member of the Red Hat Society and enjoyed spending time at the Friendship Senior Center, where she especially loved playing penny bingo. Gen had many passions. In her earlier years, she delighted in preparing homemade meals and sweet treats, and she loved hosting family and friends with warmth and joy. She was known for her kindness, generosity, and willingness to be a steady shoulder for others. Gen made sure no one went without, even when it meant sacrificing for herself. Her actions spoke volumes about the depth of her compassion and the many lives she touched. Above all, Genevieve treasured time with her family and friends and the memories they created together. She will be remembered for her unconditional love, her lively sense of humor, and her infectious deep laugh that was often accompanied by her signature snort. A hardworking, determined, and endlessly optimistic woman. Her positive spirit allowed her the ability to never know a stranger. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. She is survived by her two daughters, Patricia (James) Pearson and Cheryl (Eric) Terpsma; five grandchildren, Lauren Pearson, Ryan (Elizabeth) Pearson, Marie Spence, Kendra Terpsma and Corbin Terpsma; two stepchildren, Jim Nichols Jr. and Tracy (John) Bennett; eight step grandchildren, Jessica, Rebekah, Jennifer, Alexis, Mikayla, Caleb, Aubrey and Carter; and 8 step-great-grandchildren; two brothers, Phillip (Virginia) Desormeaux and Raymond Desormeaux; two sisters, Diane (James) Curtis and Gayle Hunter; and many dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, James Nichols; and three brothers, Larry, Harry and Wayne Desormeaux. A Celebration of Gen’s Life will be held at Cedar Creek Alliance Chapel, 7193 Sweeter Rd., Twin Lake, MI 49457 at a later date. There will also be continued celebrations at her home on the Crooked River. Memorial Contributions in her honor can be directed to the Wounded Warrior Project or Harbor Hospice. Share memories with the family at https://www.sytsemafh.com.
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