Gary E. Nickerson,  loving husband, father, Papa and friend

FRIENDSHIP — Gary E. Nickerson, 66, of Friendship, passed away Monday (Sept. 8, 2025) at home, surrounded by his family.

Born Sept. 26, 1958, in Cuba, he was a son of Dale E. and Rayveria “Jean” Abbott Nickerson. On Aug. 3, 1985, in Schroon Lake, he married his loving wife of 40 years, Ann C. Perryman, who survives.

Gary was a graduate of Friendship Central School, Class of 1976.

His lifelong passion was farming, working alongside his father and then taking over Nickerson Farms in Friendship. For over 40 years he raised, raced and trained standardbred horses.

Gary was a member of the U.S. Trotting Association, WNY Harness Horseman’s Association, Farm Bureau and Middlebury Co-op.

Active in the community, he was a former member of the Friendship Fire Department and also served as a fire commissioner for the Town of Friendship.

Gary had an incredible zest for life, his motto “Every day is a good day, some are just better than others.”  He ended every call with “I love you and I’m proud of you.”

He will be so deeply missed.

In addition to his wife, Ann, he is survived by two daughters, Andrea (Noah) Zazulia of Palm City, Fla. and Ashlynn (Darion) Matteson of Stannards; two grandchildren, Cora and Senna; three sisters, Jan (Darrell) Aylor, Lorna (Gary) Ripple and Michele (Jack, who was like a brother) Skinner; a brother, Jeff (Mindy) Nickerson; several nieces and nephews; and many close friends.

Friends may call from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Saturday (Sept. 13, 2025) at the Mark F. Rinker Funeral Home & Memorial Service, Inc., 9 Bull St., Cuba. Funeral services will begin in the funeral home at 1 p.m. Pastor John Francisco will officiate.

In true Gary fashion, he asked that we charge five dollars admission for all who come to see him off, with the proceeds to benefit the Hart Comfort House.

A Celebration of Life will take place at 3:30 p.m. at Sunny Hill Campground in Bolivar. Those who would like to attend are asked to bring a dish to pass and beverage of choice.