Christopher Nicholson, a beloved resident of Lackawanna, New York, tragically lost his life in a fatal car accident on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, along with his dog. The crash occurred on Seneca Nation territory, specifically on Versailles Plank Road.
Nicholson, 47, was traveling southbound when his vehicle veered off the road and into a wooded area, ultimately resulting in a tragic fatality. Both Nicholson and his dog were pronounced dead at the scene by medical personnel.
Authorities from the Erie County Sheriff’s Office have confirmed the incident, and the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash remains ongoing. Nicholson was a man of many talents, an individual whose professional and community contributions spanned decades.
He was well-known in the Lackawanna area, not only for his extensive work in the skilled trades but also for his leadership roles in local youth sports. As a former Vice President and Senior member of Lackawanna Little Loop Football, Nicholson was a key figure in the development and mentorship of young athletes.
His leadership within the organization helped lay the foundation for the success of many local football players, ensuring the continuation of a legacy of community support and athletic achievement.
In addition to his work with Little Loop Football, Nicholson was highly involved in various roles within his community. He served as the Head of Building and Grounds at Legends, a role that saw him overseeing facilities and ensuring their upkeep.
Nicholson’s commitment to maintaining public spaces and ensuring that local infrastructure was functional and safe spoke to his dedication to improving the environment around him.
Nicholson was also an experienced tradesman and business owner, having established Nicholson’s Construction, a company that reflected his skills as both a craftsman and an entrepreneur.
His expertise in construction was rooted in years of work as a Journeyman Carpenter, having worked with notable companies like Huber/Boxhorn Construction Inc., and as a member of the Carpenter’s Union Local 289 and Carpenters Local 276 in Western New York.
Nicholson was well-respected in the construction industry, with a reputation for precision, hard work, and professionalism. Throughout his career, Nicholson also held positions in a range of industries that demonstrated his versatility.
He worked as a Refractory Worker, specializing in fire brick and boiler work with the Laborer’s Union Local 210, a role that required meticulous attention to detail and a keen understanding of industrial processes.
His skills as a Journeyman Blaster/Painter, working on bridges and water tanks, further cemented his reputation as a highly skilled laborer, having worked with the International Union of Painters & Allied Trades.
Nicholson’s commitment to service and his ability to apply his tradesmanship in various fields left an enduring impact on the community. He was dedicated not only to his work but to the people around him.
His ability to build strong relationships, mentor young people, and contribute to his community through his work made him a respected and valued member of the Lackawanna area.
Nicholson’s involvement in youth sports, construction, and the labor unions showcased his passion for both building physical structures and developing the next generation.
A graduate of Lackawanna High School, Nicholson was a lifelong resident of the city. His ties to the area were strong, and his legacy as a hard-working and community-oriented individual will continue to be felt by those who knew him.
Whether through his work on the field with youth football or his efforts to maintain the physical infrastructure of the city, Nicholson was someone who made a difference in the lives of others.
