Jack Dean Nicholson, 93, died Friday, January 11, 2019, at Wesley Acres in Des Moines. He was born October 31, 1925, in Jamaica, Iowa to Lloyd and Madge Nicholson. Jack graduated from Jamaica High School in 1943 and then enlisted in the US Navy. He served as a signalman in the South Pacific in New Caledonia from 1944 to 1946. After returning from service, he attended Iowa Barber College and so began his life long career as a barber. Growing up during the prohibition era, Jack became familiar with the barbering business when his father set up a combination barbershop and pool hall establishment. He barbered in downtown Des Moines, in the Hubbell Building for over 50 years. He became known in all the downtown circles as Jack the Barber.
After graduating from Barber College, he met and married Helen (Spiegel) Nicholson on June 12, 1949. After using the GI Bill to secure financing, they built a new home on 16th Street, West Des Moines, just across from a cornfield, where they still reside.
He was a member of the Jamaica American Legion Post #687 and the West Des Moines United Methodist Church for over 60 years. Interests included Valley High Schools sports, where he rarely missed a football, basketball or baseball game. He earned medals in the Senior Olympics, participating in the free throw competition until he was well into his 80’s.
Jack is survived by his wife Helen; children, Stephen (Suzanne) Nicholson, Kathy Nicholson; granddaughter, Katie Nicholson; step-grandchildren, Robert and Rebecca Lyons; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, two sisters, and brother.
Funeral services will be 10:45 am on Monday, January 14 at the West Des Moines United Methodist Church. Visitation will be from 9:15 am to 10:30 am in the Friendship Room at the church on Monday morning, prior to service time. Memorial contributions may be given to the West Des Moines United Methodist Church.
