Kenneth Robert Nickerson, age 84, peacefully passed away on Friday, May 31, 2019 at Alden Courts of Waterford in Aurora, IL. He was born April 24, 1935 in Gloucester, MA, the son of the late William R. and Hilda M. [Snow] Nickerson.
Following ROTC training in high school and college, Ken proudly served his country in the US Army's Chemical Corps and in the Army Reserve from 1958 to 1967, reaching the rank of Captain. His educational achievements include a BS degree in Chemical Engineering from MIT as well as a JD from Boston College.
Ken had several jobs including Partner at Cape Ann Laboratories; Research Director & Laboratory Manager at The Gorton Corporation; Director, Special Programs at the New England Aquarium (designer of the Floating Pavilion); as well as interesting forgotten ventures such as the Cape Ann Marine Aquarium in Lanesville; and the Cape Ann Seal Circus in West Gloucester. For most of his career he practiced Estate Law in his home office in Rockport until he retired in 2000.
Ken was devoted to Cape Ann. He had a passion for local history, helping to drive events such as the Rock in Rockport Festival and the "trial" of the Cape Ann Sea Serpent. Ken served as a member of the board of Rockport National Bank, assisted Rockport (and other North Shore towns) to computerize their police and fire services, and he served as member of the Rotary Club of Rockport (relishing his year as president).
Ken would always help a neighbor in need. He particularly enjoyed entertaining others with tales of Cape Ann, magic tricks, or balloon animals. Ken frequently shared orchids or dahlias from his gardens to lighten a neighbor's day. He had a dry wit that survived his long battle with Alzheimer's and this was especially appreciated by his many loving caretakers.
He is survived by his son Edward R. Nickerson (spouse Tracy A. [Boggs]) of Oswego, IL; daughter Cynthia A. Nickerson of Fairfax, VA; grandchildren Mason R., Trisha R. and Bailey A. Nickerson; ex-wife Emily H. Wilson, Fairfax, VA; brother Richard Nickerson, Halifax, NS; and dear cousin Gail [LaVie] Camp, Merritt Island, FL.
All services will be private.
Memorials can be made to the Alzheimer's Association at https://alz.org/. ; For information: 630-554-3888 or www.dunnfamilyfuneralhome.com
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