We use frail, innately inadequate words to describe people and emotions that, in actuality, defy all human language. Our son Nik and our unconditional, boundless love for him are two such indescribable entities. We hope to give you the smallest insight into the exceptional person he was with that we have crafted out of our love for him as his adoring, proud parents.
From the earliest ages, Nik lived life his way and on his terms. He did not tolerate transactional relationships; he wanted genuine friendships and was willing to forego any relationship at all if it was not to be a true friendship. A high school girlfriend once asked Nik what he thought made him special. Nik’s response was that he didn’t think he was special, rather he thought he was unique. Yes, he was unique. Very unique.
He was generous with his time and money—willing to go the greatest lengths to help his friends. He was extraordinarily kind to all of those around him—whether in his friend circle or not. He was constantly curious—whether with work, his cars that he treasured so much, the Halloween displays we built, or just about anything else.
As a son to his Mom and Dad, he could not have been a better person. He made us better people by being a part of our lives. He challenged conventional wisdom, brought unique viewpoints to every discussion, and was always engaged in the family.
Nik packed a lot of living in his short 24 years. He traveled to 42 states, 5 countries (his favorite was Japan!), went to concerts around the country, most recently to New York City where he met up with friends to explore the city and enjoy live music. He supported budding artists that he discovered and liked, whether it be musical art or fine art. He collected cars—mostly Miatas but his last one was a 1996 Honda Civic.
He learned to work on them and was fearless and creative when it came to doing repairs and modifications. He helped create and run the Halloween Haunt that we did as a family each year. He quickly fell into a routine with his career and loved working with the teams. He learned to be a very good cook and was not afraid to try new dishes and cuisines.
I unfortunately just recently found out about your son Nik’s passing. I went to Communication Arts HS with Nik. I wasn’t a close friend of his and I can’t remember talking with him more than a handful of times, but I still enjoyed my encounters with him. When I read that he passed, I saw a comment that said, “if you knew Nik, you loved him”. I would like to add, if you merely observed Nik, you loved him. He always had a smile on his face and a spring in his step. He was truly one of a kind.
Yes. He was truly one of a kind and will be missed tremendously by all who knew him. The world is worse off not having Nik here.
Nik, we cherished every moment we had with you and miss you every moment of every day.
All of our love, Mom and Dad.
