Michael R. “Nich” Nicholson, Cls 74, of Vilas, N.C., on Oct. 27, 2023. Michael Nicholson lived a life marked by patience, kindness, generosity, and love for others. Nicholson was born in Rabun County, Ga., and lived most of his life in northeast Georgia before retiring to Vilas, N.C. After attending Georgia Tech, he co-founded the Mellow Mushroom restaurant chain in 1974 with fellow Yellow Jacket Rocky Reeves, IM 79, and later a third partner. Their first restaurant was opened on Spring Street and their business grew into one of the top 100 pizza companies in the country.  

Nicholson was a member of St. Timothy Orthodox Church in Toccoa, Ga., and Saints Peter and Paul Orthodox Church in Jefferson, N.C. A beloved father and grandfather, his patience was endless, his advice was measured and practical, and the example he set was one of selflessness and simplicity. 

He is survived by his children: Sierra Nicholson (Ryan Hull), Zachary (Lindsay), Anna Shinafelt (Justin), Lily Ippolito (Scott), Luke (Allison Game), Zane, Seth, and Jude as well as five grandchildren, sisters June Thomas and Ruth Smith, and brothers Kenneth (Brenda) and Roy.