James John Nicholson

In Loving Memory of James “Jim” Nicholson (1955-2026)

Jim Nicholson, a respected business leader and a man who was deeply devoted to his family, passed away on January 17, 2026. After a long and courageous battle with cancer, Jim departed with the same quiet strength and dignity that defined his life.

Born in Syracuse, NY and raised locally in Saratoga, Jim was a product of his community. He attended both Sacred Heart and Archbishop Mitty, forging friendships that lasted for decades.

Jim brought the values of his upbringing into his professional life as he took ownership of Dinsmore Landscape Co. in 1997. Over the next thirty years, Jim grew the company into a premier commercial force in Silicon Valley, known not just for the quality of its work, but for the integrity and fairness Jim brought to every handshake and project. To those in the industry, he was a respected leader and mentor.

Jim’s true legacy lives on in the sprawling family he adored. He is survived by his wife Lisa, sister Kathy (Paul), as well as being the proud father of five sons: Clayton (Kara), Ryan (Katie), Justin (Alexis), Logan (Christina), and Tyler. His greatest joy in recent years was his role as “Papa" to his 11 grandchildren: Willow, Toren, Dillon, Blake, Walker, Sloane, Remi, Wilder, Zoey, Reese, Mina and to his many nieces, nephews and their children. He will be greatly missed and forever remembered.

In keeping with Jim’s humble and generous nature, he requested that no formal services be held. Instead he asked that his life be celebrated through acts of kindness and support for the causes close to his heart: Hospice of Santa Cruz County.