John S. Nidelcheff Sr.

Nidelcheff, John S. Sr.,

Of Jackson left for his last scheduled trip escorted by his tour guide, the good Lord on Monday, June 25, 2012 age 83 years. John was preceded in death by his beloved wife Marjorie on June 18, 1971. Survivors include his son John Jr. "Kip", daughter-in-law Robin and grandson "Joey". Daughter Sheryl and son-in law Richard Empert in Fort Myers Florida, sister Betty Dosseff in Indianapolis, nephew Ben Dosseff, nieces Susan Zoller and Laurie Coughlin plus some cousins in the U.S.A. and Bulgaria. John was born and raised in Jackson and graduated from Jackson High School. He served in the 4th Infantry Division in WWII and was also called back for the Korean Conflict. He received his B.A. Degree at Albion College and his M.A. Degree at Western Michigan University. He did post graduate studies at the University of Michigan and Wayne State University. John was a teacher at Albion High School from 1950 to 1951, Jackson High School from 1951 to 1965 and was the Director of Vocational Education for the Jackson Public Schools from 1965 to 1973. He was the first principal at the Jackson Area Career Center, worked in planning the building, writing the curriculum, hiring the staff and support personnel during the years of 1973 to 1976. He served 15 local school districts and some 1,500 students and served as building principal until his retirement in 1984.

While working he was very active in professional organizations, American Vocational Assoc., National Assoc. Of Vocational Administrators, National and Michigan Assoc. Of Secondary School Principals, Jackson County Principals Assoc., Michigan Congress of School Administrators, American Assoc. Of School Administrators, 1961 charter member and Past President of the Cascades Exchange Club; 1976 Boss of the Year award from the American Business Women's Assoc., Past President Jackson Jr. Achievement (2 terms). He was Chairman for 4 years of the Education Division of the United Way Campaign. John served as Past Secretary and then Past President of the Jackson County Principal Association, Past Secretary and then Past Chairman of the State Vocational Commission and the Executive Board of the Michigan Assoc. Of Secondary School Principals; Past Board member and President of the Jackson County Historical Society and was a member of the First United Methodist Church.

At his request cremation has taken place. A Memorial Service will be held at the First United Methodist Church on Monday, July 30, 2012 at 10:30 AM. Reverend Doctor Eric Beck officiating.

In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to the First United Methodist Church or the Jackson Area Career Center Student Scholarship Fund.

Desnoyer Funeral Home--
Family owned for 122 years