NOLAN, MICHAEL E.

Michael E. Nolan, 80, died April 6, 1991. Father of Jean (John) Krygelski of Tucson; grandfather of Michael Nolan, Karin Nolan and Sara Nolan Schuchardt, all of Tucson; brother of Michael F. Nolan of CA and Mary Petty of TX; uncle of Roberta Mileusnich of NV.

Mr. Nolan graduated from Tucson High, played on the state champion football team. He was known as “King Kong.” He played at U of A and was the first All American from the university. He was also named on the all-time top ten players. Mr. Nolan played for the Chicago Cardinals. While at the U of A Mike set many track records including the javelin record which remained for 32 years. He was Southwest region heavyweight boxing champion and was Max Baer’s sparring partner.

He served in WWII U.S. Marines and was promoted from private to captain on the battlefield. He served with Raiders and was battalion commander on Iwo Jima. He received a Navy Cross along with many other medals and retired as a major.

In 1955 he graduated from the U of A Department of Engineering. He retired as a civil engineer of the U.S. Forest Dept.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Nellie and brother, Bob who was the founder of the Sons of the Pioneers.

Scripture service, 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, April 10 at Bring’s Broadway Chapel, with interment to follow at Our Lady of the Desert Cemetery. Rosary will be recited at 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, April 9 and friends may call from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Tuesday, April 9, at Bring’s Broadway Chapel, 6910 E. Broadway.

Historian’s note: We are unable to confirm that Michael E. Nolan was ever awarded the Navy Cross.