Charles Leland Nickerson, 90, of Wells, Maine passed away peacefully on October 14, 2024. He  was born on November 14, 1933, in Sanford, Maine, the son of the late Dr. Millard E. and Allison Choate Nickerson. He graduated from Sanford High School in 1952 and served in the U.S. Air Force as a staff sergeant during the Korean Conflict from 1952 to 1956. Mr. Nickerson earned a B.A. in Government from the University of New Hampshire in 1960 and his J.D. from Cornell University Law School in 1963. Following his graduation from Cornell, he returned to Sanford and practiced law with the firm which would become Willard, Hanscom & Nickerson.  In 1976, he founded his own firm which continues to this day.

He continued to practice law until the day he died, leaving a lasting impact on his many clients and the community he loved and served for over six decades. 'Charlie,' as he was known by all, possessed an astounding memory. His recall of people, places, and local history was often sought after and always entertaining. Later in life, he passionately advocated for and contributed to the Sanford-Springvale Historical Society.

In past years, Charlie served his community as a Sanford town meeting member, secretary of the Sanford-Springvale Chamber of Commerce, president and campaign chairman of the Sanford-Springvale United Fund, Inc., member of the North Parish Congregational Church, president of the Sanford Kiwanis Club, member and president of the Sanford Town Club, chairman of the Sanford Republican Committee and chairman of the Sanford Chapter of the American Red Cross.

As an attorney, he was a member of the York County and State of Maine Bar Associations. He was admitted to practice law in State of Maine Courts, the U.S. Federal Court, and the U.S. Supreme Court. He has entrusted his law practice and trust office to Dylan D. Clason, Esq. and Deborah Hurd. The practice will continue as the Law Office of Clason & Nickerson, PLLC.  Throughout the years, Charlie was grateful for, and appreciative of, his loyal staff and was fortunate to form many lifelong friendships. 

He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Linda Powers Nickerson; three sons: David Charles Nickerson of Kennebunk, ME, Charles Leon Nickerson and his wife, Diana of Andover, MA, and Daniel Lloyd Nickerson of Wells, ME; five grandchildren: Nathan, Michael, Kathryn, Charles Jr., and Andrew; and four great-grandchildren: Sofia, Angelina, Noah, and Miles. He was predeceased by his brother, Millard E. Nickerson Jr., and two sisters, Wilhelmina M. Kramer and Naida A. Hanson.

Above all, Charlie instilled in his children and grandchildren a strong work ethic, a love for travel, and a deep sense of kindness and respect for others.  As a husband, father, grandfather, and uncle he will always be dearly loved and respected.

At his request no public services will be held.

Memorial donations may be made to the Sanford-Springvale Historical Society or the Sanford-Springvale YMCA.

Arrangements are entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home, North Berwick, Maine.   Condolences may be expressed at www.JohnsonFuneralHomeME.com