Chip Nicholas passed away peacefully, surrounded by loving family and friends after a three-year battle with cancer. Chip, Chippie, Chipster, or Grampie Chip, will be missed dearly by his many friends and especially his family.
Chip Nicholas was an icon on the ski mountain, where he honed his craft of ski instructing and achieved the highest ranking as a fully certified PSIA Level 3 instructor. For over 40 years, Chip has been known for his teaching ability, his easy smile, and his outgoing, friendly, compassionate manner. Born in Flushing, NY, Chip grew up to become president of his senior class at Plainfield High School. Chip then served in the U.S. Navy from 1955 to 1959. He moved to Vermont in the 1960s where he realized his love for skiing, met and married his wife Carolyn, started his family and began his career as a ski instructor. He worked with his friends and colleagues at the Sugarbush Ski School in Vermont, and realized his calling in life. In 1993, Chip and Carolyn moved to Park City for a new adventure, new opportunities and fresh powder. Chip joined the ski instructors at Deer Valley as a seasoned professional and surrounded himself with unbelievable friends, both new and old.
Chip's outstanding ability to teach and coach people of all ages has left hundreds of people with skills and memories that will last forever. However, his skiing lessons pale in comparison to the life lessons that he has shared with those who know him well. He led his life with dignity and left his daughters and grandchildren with a passion for skiing, an unmatched work ethic and outstanding values for family, friends and faith.
Chip could never say no to his girls, Jennifer, Kristina. He worked and played hard every day of his life and was always true to the family crest depicting the phrase Carpe Diem, Seize the Day!
A memorial was held on Monday, November 5, 2007, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Park City. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Chip's name to Love Hospice. Love Healthcare, attention Wayne Ferrin, 1405 West 2200 South, Suite 200, Salt Lake City, UT 84119.
This spring there will be a special memorial service for Chip at Sugarbush. Details will be announced as they become available.
