Nicholas Frank Demerly

Nicholas Frank Demerly

March 28, 1934-Oct. 30, 2023

Elkhart- Nicholas F. Demerly, 89, passed away on Oct. 30, 2023. He was born March 28, 1934, to Garold and Emily Demerly in Benzonia, MI.

He married Eleanor Thornton on May 19, 1956. They faithfully shared their love for 67 years. She survives along with their children Leroy Demerly of Cassopolis, MI, Debra Demerly of Lobelville, TN, John Demerly of Elkhart, IN and adopted daughter Shelly Russell of Lobelville, TN.; 4 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren. He was proceeded in death by his parents; 5 brothers and 6 sisters and 1 great granddaughter.

Nicholas served in the US Army from 1952 till 1955. He did his basic training at Fort Reilly, KS. and was stationed in Japan. He had great pride in his military service, sharing stories of his adventures of military life until his death.

He lived and worked in the Elkhart area for more than 64 years. He was employed by Miles Laboratory for 31 years as a journeyman carpenter, till his retirement. Nicholas was an exceptionally skilled craftsman who enjoy working at home in his shop crafting many beautiful pieces of furniture to include grandfather's clocks, roll top desks, full kitchen cabinets, etc.

Nicholas was an avid reader of history books. His love and knowledge of history was also a passion for his conversations with others. He learned and shared.

Nicholas attended the Calvary Assembly of God church. He was husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather to many, he was proud of his family. He was a loyal friend to many. Nicholas was a gentleman who lived by a high standard.

  Family will receive friends 2 hours prior to the 1:00 p.m. funeral service on Friday, November 3, 2023, at the Walley-Mills Zimmerman Funeral Home, 700 East Jackson Blvd, Elkhart, Indiana.  Pastor Brian Whidden will officiate.  Burial will follow in Prairie Street Cemetery.

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