Hal Nicholas passed away peacefully in the company of his family, at age 96. Brother of two older sisters, Jeanette and Katherine, Hal grew up in Colorado and graduated from the University of Washington. While stationed at Fort Ord during the Korean War, he met his bride, Mary. They married in Santa Cruz, CA in June 1952, beginning a lifelong journey of love and partnership.

They settled in the Seattle area, where Hal's entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish his own CPA accounting and tax practice. Hal is survived by his wife, Mary; four children: Jan (Jack) Westenborg, Tom (Wendy), Tim (Jan), and Lauri (Mike Sroczynski) Thonus; six grandchildren: Amelia (Jeff) Nicholas, Jill (Josh) D'Aniello, Kennedy (Josh) Nicholas, Drew, Talia, and Parker; and a great-granddaughter, Tilly D'Aniello. His family was a source of immense joy.

Music was Hal's greatest passion. Whether playing the clarinet or jazz piano, he thrived on sharing melodies and moments over a good cocktail. He also loved to travel and spend time with family across the country and globe. Along with his interest in current events and history, Hal will be remembered for his warmth, laughter, and love of Dixieland Jazz. In his honor, raise a toast to good times, good friends, and the music that brought him so much joy.

A memorial service will be held on February 16, 2025, at 3:00pm at Timber Ridge in Issaquah, WA.