Thomas M. Nicholls, 47, of 502 Poplar St., Hurley, died unexpectedly Monday, Dec. 10, 2007, in his home. He was born June 22, 1960, attended Ironwood area schools, and graduated from Luther L. Wright High School in 1978. He then served on active duty in the U.S. Navy for four years, and was honorably discharged in 1983. Tom was employed as manager of Hardee's in Ironwood for several years and district area manager of Subway, also for several years. At the time of his death, he owned and operated Northern Venture Trucking Co. in Hurley. He was a past active member of the Ironwood Area Jaycees, receiving numerous awards for outstanding community service. He loved the outdoors. On April 30, 1983, he was married to the former Mary Ann Erspamer at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Hurley by the Rev. Joseph Willger. Mary Ann survives. Also surviving are a son, Michael, at home; his mother-in-law, Claire Erspamer, of Hurley; and the Ted and Ed Erspamer families. He was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Copper Erspamer, on May 22, 1985. In accordance with Tom's wishes, cremation has taken place. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, Dec. 15, at 11 a.m., at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Hurley, with the Rev. Michael Hayden, celebrant. Rite of Committal will be at the church, where a flag presentation ceremony will be accorded by the joint Hurley American Legion and VFW Honor Guard. Luncheon will follow in the parish hall. Spring interment will be in St. Mary's Cemetery, Hurley. Friends may call at the church beginning at 10 a.m. on Saturday. To view Tom's obituary online, sign the guestbook and express condolences, visit mckevittpatrickfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are entrusted to McKevitt-Patrick and Engstrom Funeral and Cremation Services of Ironwood and Hurley.