Dòmhnall Alasdair Iain Thormoid

Donald Angus Nicholson was born in November 1890 to Alexander (1859–1926) and Christy MacLeod (1860–1941) in Bucklaw, Victoria County. He married Jenny Finlayson-Davidson (1892–1969), and together they raised a family of eight children: Ian, Clarence, Arnie, Eric, Mora, Irena, Della, and Viola. Donald's grandfather, John (Iain Thormoid Chaluim) emigrated to Little Narrows from the Isle of Skye.

A self-sufficient and industrious man, Donald operated a family farm where he raised cattle, horses, and chickens. In addition to farming, he was a skilled bricklayer, constructing many chimneys in the local area. His talents extended to boat building, making his own fishing nets, and lumberwork.