Ruth and Ernie Nicholson's love for the Morton Public Library continues beyond their lifetime
This fund supports technology upgrades/purchases by the Morton Public Library
This fund supports technology upgrades/purchases by the Morton Public Library
Ruth and Ernest Nicholson Family Library Technology Fund
Honoring a Love for Learning and Community
In April 2023, Ernest “Ernie” Nicholson established the Ruth and Ernest Nicholson Family Library Technology Fund at the Morton Community Foundation to honor the memory of his beloved wife, Ruth. This designated endowment fund provides annual grants to the Morton Public Library for technology upgrades—items that may not be included in the regular budget. Grants from this fund support technology such as computers, STEM kits, electronic resources, adaptive technology, and other advancements to ensure the library remains a vibrant and accessible resource for all.
Although Ernie passed away just a few months later, on October 17, 2023, he left behind a lasting legacy of generosity and commitment to the library he and Ruth loved so much.
A Life Well Lived
Ruth Nicholson was born on April 16, 1939, in Sedgeletch, Fence Houses, United Kingdom, and married Ernie on February 15, 1964. She worked for many years at Witzig’s in Morton, was an active member of All Saints’ Episcopal Church, and served on the Altar Guild and Women’s Guild. Ruth passed away on June 25, 2019, leaving behind her husband Ernie, daughter Stephanie (Scott) Hassett, son Simon (Angela Harmon) Nicholson, and grandson Austin Hassett.
Ernest Nicholson was born on March 25, 1936, in Pelton, County Durham, England. He began his career at Caterpillar in Birtley, England, in 1962 and relocated with his family to Peoria in 1974, retiring in 1998. Ernie was deeply involved in his church, serving on the Vestry and managing its endowment fund. He loved reading, traveling, home projects, following the stock market, and watching tennis and cycling.
Together, Ruth and Ernie shared a deep love for community and learning—a passion that continues through this fund.
A Legacy for the Future
The Ruth and Ernest Nicholson Family Library Technology Fund ensures that the Morton Public Library will continue to grow with the changing times. Their foresight and generosity mean future generations will have access to the tools they need for learning and discovery.
Make a Gift
Your donation to this fund will build on the Nicholson family’s legacy and help keep the Morton Public Library at the forefront of technology for years to come.