A Burning Passion

He is a Beloved Son, Brother, Cousin, and Leader. Nick was also a three-year starting varsity quarterback for East River high school, captain of the weightlifting team, homecoming king, and a remarkable friend to all. The joy and love he carried with him touched so many lives. A pro on the field and a gentleman off.  

The day he came home from the hospital we all knew this kid was something special. 

One day he said that he was going to set the bar high at East River. That his records were going to be near impossible to beat and everyone will know his name. We see now that is exactly what he did. His will to win and play at the best of his ability remains unmatched. No matter how bad or good the previous game was or if he stayed out all night with friends you would find Nick pulling into the gym parking lot at 6 am, getting ready for the next game.

He even protected his older brother Matthew. He would speak for him and he would make sure everyone knew not to mess with him. Nick and Matthew were inseparable. No matter what Nick was getting into he would always say “Hold on I have to invite my brother Matthew.” He helped him have a great time. He helped him get out of his shell and stop being so shy. They spent their spare time together working on their trucks. Nick was also a Godfather. Every time he had the chance to see his goddaughter Ellie he would spend all that time making sure she got to know him. He fed her, took care of her, and played with her. If I tried to do the same she tells me no and runs away. It felt like all the kids gravitated toward him.