Area Realtor dies suddenly

Wirth became owner of the business in the spring of 1987, when she bought it from Judy Elgin, who had purchased Gulf Properties in 1984.

In December of 1987, Wirth brought in Tom Schumack as a partner.

"Nicole was a great partner in our 25-or-so years working together," said Schumack. "She was very professional."

Wirth held a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of West Florida, was the 1991 president of the Navarre Area Board of Realtors and was a member of the Santa Rosa Tourist Development Council south end committee.

On Saturday, May 8, a small memorial service was held at Gulf Properties.

"Nicole was a wonderful person and ruthlessly honest," said Dorothy Slye, president of the Navarre Area Board of Realtors. "You always knew where you stood with her. She was a great worker, and her business will miss her. Her work was her life."

Since 1983, Wirth had been associated with Gulf Properties, as a broker-salesman, sales manager, and owner.

Her vast experience in the industry included her work in environmental survey, Development of Regional Impact studies and site evaluations.