Louis Nicol

September 15, 1939 – October 18, 2026

Louis Nicol, of Front Street, passed away on Sunday, October 18, 2026, of natural causes.

Louis was born on September 15, 1935, in Olean, the son of Dominico and Veneranda Rossi Nicol. On February 17, 1962, he married Patricia Painter at St. Gabriel Catholic Church in Port Allegany. Patricia predeceased him on May 12, 2022.

Louis graduated from Olean High School in 1953. He earned a master’s degree in industrial arts education from Buffalo State College and a certificate in Educational Leadership from St. Bonaventure University. While earning his degrees, Louis proudly served his country in the United States Army, a commitment he carried with honor and pride. His military service reflected his strong sense of duty, dedication, and patriotism, values that remained an important part of who he was throughout his life.

Louis devoted his professional life to education, serving as principal of Olean High School from 1973 until his retirement in 1993. During his 20-year tenure, he provided leadership and guidance to generations of students, teachers, and staff. He believed in the importance of education in preparing young people for their futures and took pride in helping shape the educational experiences of countless students. His commitment to education continued after retirement through his service on the boards of education for the Olean City School District and Cattaraugus-Allegany BOCES.

Louis was a talented and dedicated carpenter who took great satisfaction in creating and repairing things with his own hands. His craftsmanship, patience, and attention to detail were evident in every project he completed, and he was always willing to share his skills with others. He cherished spending time with family and friends at Rushford Lake and enjoyed family vacations in Florida. Sunday family gatherings to watch the Buffalo Bills were a special tradition he looked forward to each week. Louis also enjoyed sitting outside his home, visiting with neighbors, and greeting the many furry friends who passed by. These simple pleasures and the time he shared with those around him brought him great joy.

Louis is survived by his three daughters, Anne M. Milligan of Olean, Andrea M. (Todd) McLaughlin of Caneadea, and Amy L. Halladay of Olean; three grandchildren, Jared (Rachel) McLaughlin of Jacksonville, Florida, Jordan (Gianna) McLaughlin of San Diego, California, and Chloeann Halladay of Orlando, Florida; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his loving wife, Patricia, Louis was predeceased by his parents; his grandson, Christopher McLaughlin; his sister, Camilla Pettenati; and his son-in-law, William Milligan.

Friends will be received at Letro-McIntosh-Spink Funeral Home, 646 East State Street, Olean, on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., at which time a funeral service will be held. Father David Tourville will officiate. Burial will follow at St. Bonaventure Cemetery. Online condolences may be expressed at www.letromcintoshspinkfuneralhome.com.