Joe Kauffman Report post Posted April 3, 2008 I just finished reading the news on AZOD that Walt passed away yesterday and wanted to let everyone here know in case they hadn't heard yet. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Nicoson family. We've had the pleasure of knowing Walt for many years and my house as well as my fathers are full of metal work he's done over the years. His crafty handwork inspired me to do several of the antler & metal projects I have displayed as well and will always hold them as a tribute to his legacy. Very sad news indeed. He will be deeply missed. Joe Kauffman Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
CouesWhitetail Report post Posted April 3, 2008 Sorry to hear about his passing. Why don't you post some photos of his metal work? Amanda Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
tjhunt2 Report post Posted April 3, 2008 I personally didn't know Walt but the wife and I would like to express our condolences. Our thoughts and prayers will be with family and friends. TJ Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
azcouesandelk Report post Posted April 3, 2008 Walt Nicoson was a one of a kind guy. He always had a smile on his face and did everything he could to help others out. Even though I only knew Walt for a little over a year he was like a grandfather to me. He was dedicated to AES and will always be remembered. My prayers are for Walt and Cookie and I will be there for you when you need me up there Cookie! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
COOSEFAN Report post Posted April 3, 2008 Thanks for posting that on here Joe I've known Walt and his wife Cookie for many years. Walt was one of those guys that always had a huge smile and was always excited about something! As Joe mentioned, he definitely had amazing talent as an artist. Walt had a passion for the true essence of hunting and wildlife conservation and it showed in his involvement and dedication to the AES. I had the honor of hunting with Walt last year on his late 7W bull tag. It was an honor for me becuase he could have hunted with anyone but he wanted to hunt with me and I'll never forget that. His health was failing at that time but he made sure to get out with me and we had a blast during the short time we had. One thing he firmly believed in and always preached to the kids was that hunting should be about the experience and memories, and not just about the kill. I admired him for his beliefs and for his talents and above all else for always being positive and kind to everyone. I'll never forget the time I got to spend with him and am grateful for it and he will definitely be missed! Jim> Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
COOSEFAN Report post Posted April 3, 2008 Here is part of an email I recieved: Two years ago John K. wrote an article about Walt Nicoson whom he referred to as “The Arizona Elk Society’s Man of Steel”. Sadly on April 1, 2008 Walt passed away after a lengthy illness. Many of us are fortunate to have items that he created with that special blend of hardened steel and vivid imagination. I know most of us will remember his wide twirling mustache and big grin whenever we pause to think about him. Each year He took the time to conceive a vision, put it down on paper and then magically make it appear through his welding skills. His artwork will live for many years to come and wildlife and the AES were all the better for having known him. Walt continually donated his art as banquet items to and helped to raise thousands of dollars through his efforts. Walt was a huge part of the Arizona Elk Society and his love for the outdoors, kids and everyone he met was evident in everything he did. I suspect that now the gates to heaven will be adorned with Walt’s Elk Sculptures. Please join all of us in extending our condolences to his wife Cookie and their family. Walt did not want to have a funeral or any type of memorial service. He must have known that a service was not needed, we will always hold his memory dear to our hearts. In lieu of flowers and cards Cookie has asked that any donations be made to the Arizona Elk Society or RTA Hospice. Arizona Elk Society P.O. Box 190, Peoria Az. 85380 RTA Hospice 1000 North Humphreys Street, Suite 220 Flagstaff, AZ 86001 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Coues 'n' Sheep Report post Posted April 3, 2008 I did not have the pleasure of knowing Walt personally, only by reputation. A man who touched the liives of so many, and will be painfully missed. I'd like send my deepest heart-felt thoughts & prayers to all of Walt's family and friends. Gino Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
TLH Report post Posted April 4, 2008 Hey Joe, do you think the AES could have a scholarship in Walt's name?? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
TLH Report post Posted April 4, 2008 Steve Clark sent this to me and asked that i post it for you. Walt and Steve designed this beautiful fireplace front and Walt worked his magic. Note the tree stand hunter--man what a talented person! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
