Robert William Nickerson, age 82, of Manchester, MI, passed away at his home on February 14, 2026, after an extended illness. He was born in Wyandotte, MI on March 10, 1943, the son of Wm. “Vernie” and Catherine (Lustila) Nickerson.
Shortly after birth, they returned to Germfask, MI in the Upper Peninsula, where he and his mother resided on the Lustila family farm while his father was in the Army. At that time, his grandmother nicknamed him “Sonny.” Relatives and Yooper friends still remember him as “Sonny.” His grandparents were born in Finland and settled in the U.P. Sonny was very proud of his Finnish heritage and Yooper background.
He lived the majority of his life in Manchester, MI and graduated from Manchester High School in 1961. He proudly remembered earning a starting position on the varsity football team as a freshman. After graduation, he joined the United Brotherhood of Carpenters Local 512 and 687, retiring in 1998. His last “big job” was designing and building his cherished log cabin in the woods of the U.P. With his son, Bart, and best friend, Keith Reed, Sonny spent every possible minute at his cabin that he loved so much.
He was an avid golfer and hunter, especially bear and deer. He obedience trained German Shepherd dogs, and he raised white-tail deer for 22 years. Due to health issues, his log cabin time came to an end. He and Helen were blessed with caring for their great-grandchildren, Taylor and Robert, who entertained them daily.
He was preceded in death by an infant son, Bret; his parents, Vernie and Catherine Nickerson; and brother, Mike Nickerson.
Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Helen Nickerson; son, Bart (Joyce) Nickerson; grandson, Jesse; great-granddaughter, Taylor Ann; great-grandson and namesake, Robert William; two sisters and one brother, all of Manchester.
Cremation has taken place. No services are planned.
Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.
