1918-2025

To his family and friends, George, ParPar, Papou, The Greek, was a legend in his own time.

And now, his legacy will continue to be held in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

George's depth of character was grounded in a strong faith in God, which was evidenced in all of his actions and words.

George lived a life of integrity guided by his faith, which also allowed for adventure and good-natured mischief. Often it was said, "God broke the mold" after He created George Nicholau!

George was born and raised in Marysville, CA, by Greek immigrant parents. He left Marysville to attend the University of California, Berkeley where he lettered in football.

While at Berkeley he commuted to UC Medical Center in San Francisco, CA, to earn a degree in pharmacy. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the Navy and served as an executive officer, assigned to the USS RUFF minesweeper in the South Pacific during WWII.

George returned to Marysville, CA, to make plans for his future. He had his eye on Gaye Bravos that soon led to a proposal of marriage.

Their partnership was defined by their love and an unwavering devotion to each other. They had the good fortune to celebrate their 75th wedding anniversary together June 26, 2024.

They committed their lives to each other and their six daughters. Clearly, the impact George had on his wife and daughters was and will continue to be immeasurable.

Each daughter carries in their hearts the lessons from his faith, wisdom, and enthusiasm for life. Even at the end, the twinkle in his eye remained evident as he would give two thumbs up, signaling all was well.

The gratitude he displayed throughout his life was the gift we will all continue to cherish as we move forward.

"Enjoy the Pursuit" was his mantra applied to all, whether it be celebrations or challenges ahead. He recognized life was filled with obstacles. However, he firmly believed having the full spectrum of life experiences should be met with faith, grace and enjoyment.

His daughters also heard other poignant phrases that informed their youthful journey into adulthood, "Remember your Primary Purpose", and an occasional "I didn't think you'd go that route".

His discipline and commitment to family values nurtured a solid foundation for his wife, daughters, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Beyond his love for his family, George had a wonderful career that highlighted his dedication to his community. He was loyal and passionate for the things he valued and enjoyed.

Upon returning home after the war he founded the Marysville Clinic Pharmacy and later Safe Save Pharmacy. He served many years on the Board of Trustees of Yuba College.

At his beloved University of California, Berkeley, he was elected to the Directors of the Big "C" Society and then the Alumni Council.

He proudly served many years as a member of the Parish Council for the Greek Orthodox Annunciation Church in Sacramento, CA.

He enjoyed the game of golf and then later tennis as a founding charter member of the Peach Tree Golf and Country Club. George enjoyed mentoring those who sought his input and advice.

His positive approach to life was infectious and witnessed while playing the sport he loved, football and then later actively volunteering in support of football programs in the community, instructing the art of the perfect golf swing, and offering input on educational programming, just to list a few. His "can do" attitude infiltrated all his interactions.

George shaped the lives of many by his authenticity and compassion for cherishing the gift of life for 106 years!

We have been blessed to have been in his good company. This unique, extraordinary, spiritual man's memory is engraved in the hearts of many and we pray will be eternal.

He is survived by his wife, Gaye; daughters, Dessi Chuchas (Jim), Dorre Nicholau, Jamie Adams (Griffith), Terre Terzakis (Arthur), and Edie Delegans (Chris); grandchildren, Nicholau Adams (Lydia), George Chuchas (Christina), Alexander Chuchas (Angelique), Elizabeth Forbes (Farquhar), Nicholas Terzakis, and George Delegans; and seven wonderful great grandchildren.

George was preceded in death by his infant son, Edison Nicholau; daughter, Jorgi Boom (Denny); and by his three siblings, the most recent being Nicholas Nicholau (Marion).

Services will be held at The Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation, 616 Alhambra Blvd, Sacramento, CA, at 9:30 AM, on Thursday, May 8, 2025. Makaria (Meal of Remembrance) to follow at the church in the Hellenic Center.

Donations in memory of George may be made to the Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation, Sacramento, CA, or UC Berkeley Regents, with the memo line to Championship Caliber and send it to Cal Athletics Fund, attention to David Gilreath, 195 Haas Pavilion, Berkeley, CA 94720, or Yuba College Foundation, 3301 Onstott Road, Yuba City, CA 95991