Connie Boehning Nicholson ~ Class of 1964
August 11, 1946 - April 7, 2003
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Connie Jean Boehning Nicholson, lifetime Richland resident, left to be with her Lord April 7, 2003 From Sacred Heart Medical Center in Spokane. Though her passing came unexpectedly, her husband and children were able to be at her side during her brief struggle.
Teased by her children as being a living ''information superhighway'' Connie will be remembered by many as ''The One To Call When You Must Know It All!'' Her outgoing personality and graceful tenderness allowed relationships whose wealth might only be matched by their sheer volume.
Connie was born August 11, 1946 in Richland to her mother and father Doris and Gordon Boehning, with whom she had a close and loving relationship.
She attended Lewis and Clark Elementary and Carmichael Junior High School. Connie graduated from Columbia High (presently known as Richland High) in 1964. It was there she met her soul mate and future husband Max Nicholson. She continued her education by attending Kinmon Business College in Spokane, W A from 1964 to 1965.
Connie moved to Seattle in 1966 awaiting the return of Max from Vietnam. They were wed upon his arrival June 29, 1968 and returned to Richland as one. There they began to build their family, being blessed with the first of four children in 1970.
Connie began developing her famous work ethic early in life, taking a job at Tastee-Freeze during high school. In 1968, she took a position with Max Walton Insurance and in 1975 was employed as a buyer in the Hanford area. She remained there until 1995 when she fell victim to a round of Hanford lay-offs. Not one to mope she
quickly found work with Richland Industrial the same year. Recognized as a leader in her field she was hired away by Stellar Industrial in 1999. Connie's remarkable people skills, ability to develop loyal clientele, and tenacity in problem solving quickly earned her accolades from her colleagues and that same year earned Stellar Industrials Employee ofthe Year Award.
Many of Connie's fondest memories were of friendships developed throughout her career and the challenges of satisfying such a diverse set of needs.
Connie was a strong Christian, deep in faith and secured by the word of Christ. She was confirmed to the Redeemer Lutheran Church as a teenager and remained a lifetime member. She had taught Sunday school and recently began attending Redeemer's contemporary service. She very much enjoyed its uptempo music and lively songs.
Connie was truly loved by many, especially by her husband Max of 34 yrs. Connie was his rock, best friend and eternal partner. Her warmth and wisdom touched many lives and she will be missed.
Connie was preceded in death by her mother, Doris Boehning. She is survived by her father, Gordon Boehning, her partner in life, Max Nicholson, her blessed and beloved children Kirtis Nicholson loved one Dawn, Jason and Kelly Nicholson, Dawn and Denny Payne, Dana and Jason Watts and grandchildren Koby Thomasson and Emily Jean Nicholson (unborn) both of Jason and Kelly.
She is also survived by brothers Richard Boehning and wife Linda, David Boehing and wife Jean. Brother-in-law, Nick Nicholson and loved one Barbara. Sister-in-Iaws Drudeana Martin, Delene Baxter and husband Darrell. With many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly.
Burial arrangements are being made by Einan's Funeral Home at 915 by-pass Highway with viewing on Thursday April 10th 4pm-8pm, Friday April 11th 4pm-8pm and on Saturday April 12th 8am-noon.
A funeral service will be held Saturday, April 12, 2003, 2:00 p.m. at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 520 Thayer Dr. followed by a graveside service at Sunset Memorial Gardens, 915 by-pass Highway.
Please join us for a celebration of Connie's life following the graveside service at the Martin's on 5016 W. Yellowstone in Kennewick. From highway 240 take the Edison exit and turn left on Yellowstone. 5016 is just a few houses in on the left.
Four "old" pictures provided by Deedee Willox Loiseau ('64)
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