Millbury – Bruce Nichols, 78, passed away September 22, 2021 following an illness. He leaves his wife of 37 years, Judi (Holmberg) Nichols, his daughters Diane Nichols-Philie and Kristina Jackson, special daughter Ammie MacDonald, two grandsons he adored, Brady and Henry Rokes. He was predeceased by his daughter Joanne Rokes and brother Wayne.
Bruce was born in Worcester, MA, son of the late Mae (Moriarty) and Arthur Nichols and grew up in Grafton. He was a graduate of Grafton Memorial High School, class of 1961. He served in the Massachusetts National Guard. After marrying Judi, he moved to Millbury.
Bruce enjoyed talking to people with a similar interest and would visit friends regularly to just check in. You know if he was your friend, you would get a visit.
Bruce had a great interest in history, government and the constitution. He attended Worcester State University to further his knowledge after retiring. He was a member of the Millbury Historical Commission and several other committees and commissions (Millbury Youth Commission, Millbury Planning Board).
He was a lover of all things cars whether it was racing or antique/classic cars. You could find him at every car show and he loved going to the races (Thompson, New England Dragway and Speedway). He fed his need for speed by working at Thompson Speedway for many years. Being a member of many car clubs, he enjoyed the many connections over the years and attending car shows and cruises with friends. Some of the club memberships include Colonial Plymouth Club, Old Car Club of Worcester and the 4 Season Rambler Club.
Bruce enjoyed going out in one of his cars on an afternoon joyride or plan a cruise night with others. The ride would end up at a favorite restaurant or ice cream shop. If you went with him, you were almost guaranteed to see him with a chocolate frappe – thicker the better.
All are welcome to gather with Bruce’s family to celebrate his life on Thursday September 30, 2021 from 10am-11am at The First United Methodist Church 120 West Main St. Westborough MA followed by a memorial service at 11am in the church. Burial will be private at a later date.
Please honor Bruce with a memorial donation in lieu of flowers to the American Cancer Society at www.Cancer.org or to http://danafarber.jimmyfund.org/goto/Bruce_Nichols.
A Book of Memories to share a message with Bruce’s family is available online at:
