Christopher James "Chris" Nicolich

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Christopher “Chris” James Nicolich. Chris passed away at home on March 6, 2025 after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 47 years young.

Chris was a lifelong resident of Emmett Township in Battle Creek. He spent his childhood enjoying playing sports and spending time with his brother, Michael, and family. Chris graduated from Harper Creek High School in 1996. He enjoyed his early work years at Champs Sports, where he met many lifelong friends. Chris graduated with a degree in business from Western Michigan University in 2000. He then worked at Best Buy, where he met the love of his life, Beth. Chris and Beth were married May 6, 2006 on a beautiful day at St. Philip Church in Battle Creek. They built a beautiful life together, raising two children. Chris continued his professional career spending seventeen years at Kellogg’s and the last four with Stryker.

Chris was an avid sports fan and spent much time watching his beloved Michigan State Spartans, Oakland A’s, San Francisco 49ers, and Syracuse Orange. His greatest joys were his two children. He was their number one fan on the soccer field, basketball court, and in the audience of every performance. Chris was always up for a cold Mello Yello or Mountain Dew and a good slice of pizza. Chris loved life and made sure everyone who entered his left with a smile.

Chris is survived by his wife Beth (Ellinger) Nicolich, his two children Addison Nicolich (17) and Kellan Nicolich (13), his beloved cats Izze and Dixie, his parents John and Milica (Dimitrovski) Nicolich, his brother Michael Nicolich, his in-laws, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A gathering to Celebrate Chris' Life will be held 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, Saturday, March 15, 2025 at Farley Estes Dowdle Funeral Cremation Preneed Care, Battle Creek, where Fr. Christopher Ankley will offer a brief prayer at 12:00 noon. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (www.pancan.org) or to the education funds of his children, Addison and Kellan, ℅ Beth Nicolich (https://gofund.me/771395b3). Personal messages for the family and favorite memories of Chris may be placed here at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.