The Nickerson family needs your help

Dear Friends, Family, and Supporters,

My name is Chase Newton, and I’m the grandson of Rodney Nickerson, who tragically lost his life in the recent Eaton Fire in Altadena. This loss has left our family heartbroken and shaken, and we are reaching out for help as we try to rebuild what was not only our family home, but a piece of history that has been passed down for generations.

On Tuesday, January 8th, the Eaton Fire broke out near our home, devastating everything in its path. My grandfather, Rodney, who was 83 years old, was found by our family amidst the destruction, after being caught in the flames in the very home he had purchased in 1968. Despite the dangerous conditions, my grandfather insisted on staying in his home, a place that was deeply meaningful to our family. His last words to my mother were, “I’ll be here tomorrow,” but he never made it out.

Rodney Nickerson was a pillar of the Los Angeles community. After graduating from LA High School, he served honorably for four years in the US Navy. He then went on to spend 45 years working as a project engineer at Lockheed Martin. He was also the proud grandson of William Nickerson, the founder of Nickerson Gardens in Watts, the largest public housing development in Los Angeles. In addition to his professional achievements, Rodney was deeply committed to his faith and served as the chairman of Weller Street Missionary Baptist Church in Los Angeles, a position through which he contributed greatly to the community.

Our family’s roots run deep, but this fire has taken everything, including a piece of our heart and history.

We have lost not only my grandfather but also the family home where I grew up. The home was a place of countless memories, where my grandfather lived out his final days and where we all gathered for so many special occasions. As we grapple with this devastating loss, we now face the daunting task of rebuilding, both physically and emotionally.

We are asking for your support in helping us rebuild this generational home. Your donation will go directly to the costs of clearing the debris, rebuilding the house, and restoring a sense of place for our family. Every contribution, no matter the size, will help us heal and honor my grandfather’s memory, as well as continue our family’s legacy in this community.

Please consider donating to help us rebuild the Nickerson family home and our lives. Your generosity will provide the foundation for the future of our family and give us a chance to create new memories in a place that has been so important to us.

(Beneficiary’s are his children and grandchildren)

Thank you for your support, love, and prayers during this difficult time.

With deepest gratitude,

The Nickerson & Newton family