By Kathy McCarty Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE — City Council met Monday night to vote on who would next serve as chair, following the passing last week of Council Chair Ed Nickerson. Five of the six remaining councilors were present; Walt Elish was absent. Those present voted unanimously to elect Jennifer Trombley as the next chairperson. Trombley had been serving as deputy chair. Councilors voted to give the duty of deputy chair to Calvin Hall. Nickerson died March 6 at a Boston hospital due to complications where he was being treated for cancer. In recent months, his public appearances required his wearing a mask and gloves — required by his doctors to protect his suppressed immune system.
He was born July 12, 1945, son of Ralph L. Nickerson and Audrey (Smith) Nickerson Lannigan. A U.S. Navy veteran, Nickerson held a B.S. degree in business administration and accounting from Husson and had taken a number of other courses over the years that enhanced his business knowledge. He served in varying capacities at several banking institutions in Aroostook County and was involved in the economic development of the area, offering his expertise to a number of businesses and organizations over the years. Most recently, he served as director of economic development at the Loring Development Authority.
Nickerson also was involved with several economic development organizations, including: vice chair and revolving loan director of the Northern Maine Development Commission, member of the Economic Development Council of Maine, board member of the Presque Isle Development Fund and secretary and one of the founding members of the Northern Maine Finance Corp.
Nickerson was elected to the City Council in November 2005 to fill a seat vacated by Richard Scott that expired Dec. 31, 2006 — a seat originally held by Robert Poiesz, who also succumbed to cancer while in office. Running again in 2006, Nickerson was re-elected to serve through Dec. 31, 2010. He was elected chair in 2009 and again for 2010.
He was a Foundation Board member and great supporter of Northern Maine Community College. Nickerson was also an active member and past president of the Northern Maine Fair Association. A sports enthusiast, he was often spotted on the golf course and was past treasurer of the Caribou Little League.
Kevin Simmons, owner of the Presque Isle Inn and Convention Center, spoke with Nickerson during his stay in Boston.
“He was in good spirits right to the end,” said Simmons. “He put up a good fight.”
Council discussed what could be done for Nickerson’s family, during this difficult time.
“I spoke with the family and advised them if anything at all comes up, don’t hesitate to ask,” said City Manager Jim Bennett.
City Councilor Randy Smith suggested honoring Nickerson in some way.
“I was thinking perhaps dedicating the town report to Ed or something of a similar nature,” said Smith.
Bennett asked councilors to give it some thought.
“We could add a dedication to the agenda for the April 5 meeting,” Bennett said.
Nickerson is survived by his wife, Susan (Cheney) Nickerson; two sons; a daughter; two grandchildren and several family members. Calling hours were Friday at Duncan-Graves Funeral Home in Presque Isle; the funeral was Saturday, March 6, at the funeral home with Rev. Dr. Robert Grove-Markwood officiating. Interment with military honors will be conducted later in the spring. Donations in Nickerson’s memory can be sent to : C.A.N.C.E.R., PO Box 811, Presque Isle, ME 04769.
