In my childhood Iv'e never know john but my father grew up with him and was his brother and even thought i never got a chance to meet him I still send my condolences.

To John's family, I am in Madrid for a series of concerts and saw your post about John passing while we've been here. So, we dedicated our concert last night at Madrid's American International Institute to him. It's a small gesture but it meant a great deal to those in our group of performers who knew John.

John was one of the brightest and kindest people I've ever known. He has always represented the benchmark for web developers, in my eyes, and was an excellent mentor. He is still the only person I've known who could gain proficiency in a new technology so quickly and completely as he demonstrated on several occasions.
He set a very high benchmark as a person as well. His quiet confidence, positivity and generous nature are things I will always remember. Though we didn't often see one another in recent years, it was always great to catch up with him and share time with him. You could always see in his smile how much he treasures Anita and his family when he spoke of them. He will be greatly missed.

We are so incredibly sorry for your loss, Anita!! I can't express how sad we feel to hear this terrible news. John was such a wonderful, generous, thoughtful person, and we are grieving to see him gone so young and full of life. Our thoughts are with you and your family.

John was an extraordinary person in the world, and in my life, in so many ways. There are few days that go by where I don't see his influence. I was devastated to see the post yesterday and struggle with the words to tell you, Victoria, Morgan and the rest of your family how sorry I am. My thought are with you all

He was a wonderful guy, a great programmer, and had one of the best laughs I ever got the chance to hear.

Sending as much love and positive thoughts as I can Anita. John was a great guy and I feel honored to have known him. Thinking of you and your family at this time, hold them close xx

It has been a week since my best friend, Anita, lost her bestests friend/husband, to cancer. I just don't have the words to express the pain I feel deep in my heart and soul for her, her beautiful, strong and amazing daughters, and for all of us who knew John. 
John was a huge part of my life because he was married to my best friend. I thought I knew him well, but after reading all of the amazing things others have written about him, I am saddened again to learn that there were sides to him I didn't get to know as well as I thought I did.
What I did know was an amazing husband and father who loved to share his passion for music with his daughters and his passion for adventure with his wife. A man who was always willing to help me with anything "computer-y" that I didn't understand, and who was willing to spend "family" time with me and my family over a meal and conversation.

Travis was hired by John at Ackerman back in 2012 and they became friends very easily as John was such an easy going guy that was so kind. We will always be grateful to John for giving Travis that job but also for driving Travis to the hospital on August 26th 2013 when I was admitted to the hospital to have our third daughter. John didn't hesitate to take Travis to Frisco because he had carpooled into work that day and didn't have his car. He helped keep Travis calm and was the first Travis texted after the arrival of Alba. John knew how important family was and was always so kind to Travis and me every time we saw him. Taking an interest in our children and asking about each. When he offered the giant dollhouse to us we were so touched and our girls didn't leave that dollhouse for three days! Travis enjoyed talking with John over books as well. He would often find a new book on the Kindle and Travis would tell me John recommended it. He will be very missed by all. Hugs and prayers for all of John's family.

I'll miss John. He was an early influence in my life in the 80's when I was a high school kid ready to rock, and later we really grew together in an advertising and multimedia venture in the 90's that was doomed, but it was a launchpad into so many new things. 

I lost track of John for many years but when we did meet up again, maybe 10 years later, he seemed to be a different guy. Still fascinated with technology, music, sci-fi, etc. but now a leader in his space, and mostly concerned with and excited about his family, not the John I knew in the previous decades.

We went to an Aristocrats show three years ago, and I said "These guys are almost too good to listen to." To which John replied, as I'm sure he would to so many things in life:

"You can never have too much virtuosity."

I wasn't close to John, but he changed my life forever.  He gave me a chance to change my life.  When John hired me, I had no previous experience in web development.  I was between jobs and driving for Uber to make ends meet.  I told him that more than anything, I wanted to learn web development.  I'd been studying it for only the previous six months, but I loved what I'd been learning.  He was willing to give me a shot and when he asked about my salary demands, he simply asked how much it would take for me to do web development full-time without having to drive for Uber.  When I received an offer from him, it was significantly more than what I had asked for.  I can't describe how much that meant to me, but I can say that I will always be grateful to John and sorry that the world lost a man of such rare character.

I will always be eternally grateful for having met and worked alongside a wonderful man like John; he was a steady rock during turbulent situations which inspired and motivated every one around him.
My thoughts and prayers to his loving family, may God help you find solace during these difficult times.

John, I knew him as my boss, but I have never met a man like him. He was a great judge of character, quiet and talented. He believed in me and trusted me to accomplish my responsibilities. I can never be grateful enough for that. May he rest in peace, and may his family have the strength to continue onward, as he would have wished. We honor his kind and thoughtful memory.

Anita, We were so very sad to hear about John passing away.
There is little that can give much comfort you and the girls over the next few weeks/months, but in time that heavy heart will be lightened by the fond memories you have of the times you spent together. Take comfort from the love and support of family and friends. All our love to you and the girls.

"Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal."
Anita, Victoria and Morgan you are such strong women and have handled this tragedy with such grace. John was so lucky to have you for his short stay on earth. His memory will live on forever in your actions, deeds, laughter and smiles. We love you guys very much!

My time with John spanned 7 years. My appreciation extends far past that. I saw him as a thinker, musician, traveler and family man. I loved his travel stories. I looked forward to pointing out of his office window and immediately hearing him lay out the larger plans behind a building or construction site.
On a work trip to Oklahoma we stopped off to review our meeting plans. The three of us got out of the car in our suits and started walking inside with John flanked. A local man walked up and asked "are you in a band?" While we weren't it made something very clear. John was a rockstar. He is and will be missed.

John believed in me- I knew him as the one who interviewed me when I applied to his company and as my boss, but I have never met a man like him. He believed in me and trusted me to accomplish my responsibilities. I can never be grateful enough for that. May he rest in peace, and may his family have the strength to continue onward, as he would have wished. We honor his kind and thoughtful memory.

I knew your father through work. He and I first worked together at Slingshot and then a couple of years later he rescued me from a terrible job and I went to work for him at Ackerman McQueen. I will be forever grateful to him for that. He was one of the smartest people I ever worked with. There was just about no technology topic that he didn't have some insight or experience with. But besides all that I think what I will remember, and miss, the most about John was our shared love of a good book.

Over the years we had many discussions about what we were currently reading or what was up next on the list. He turned me on to some really good authors that I might not have discovered on my own. And I hope I did the same for him. I couldn't keep up with him though! Too often he would stop by and ask what I was reading and I'd have to admit it was the same thing I was reading the last time he asked. Of course, he'd have been through five books in the same time span. Plus  he could remember everything he'd read! I'm lucky if I can remember a plot a year after I finished the book. Each year he'd be sure to send several of us the year's Locus Awards or Nebula Awards nominees so we could all read through them.

He got really excited once when a friend gifted me with an acoustic guitar to learn on. John gave me some tips about playing and about where to get self-paced lessons online. But then I disappointed him by giving it up. I just didn't have the patience for it. He brought a guitar up to work and kept it in his office. Whenever there was down time, or I suspect he needed time to do some serious thinking, he'd play and we could hear it down the hallway. I will really miss that.

John Nicholas was my friend, my mentor, and my boss for the better part of a decade.  His patient guidance had an enormous influence on the man I have become.  He taught me when something was worth fighting for, and when to let it go.  He taught me when it was better to listen than to speak (something I still haven't quite grasped), and when you did speak to make the words meaningful.  When John Nicholas spoke, the room listened.  He was a man who only said it if it was important, and only did it if it was right.  

He was loyal, adventurous, fiercely intelligent, and a consummate professional.  John was a provider.  If someone needed something, they only ever need ask.  He loved his family more than anything, and my heart breaks for them.

I will miss my friend, always.

I knew two John Nicholas's.

Back in the 80's when I was a high school student working at Mervyn's, John v1 was the cool, slightly older dude in housewares who invited me over and showed me the tricks required to be a rock star: you could pin up and hide long hair under a hat or wig and work anywhere. Once I got my first pawn shop guitar, how to overdub on a 4-track, sweep picking like Vinnie Moore, and how chicks dig a guy who is not afraid to tease up his hair with Aquanet and throw a couple rad women's accessories into the wardrobe (this was the 80's and worked for him, but no way could I pull that look off).

In the early 90's I joined John and Jim for my first real new media gig at Museworthy fresh out of college - and he just tossed me right into the frying pan by telling clients I could write corporate videos and edit commercials. If there was anything requiring serious geek work, for instance scripting 3D Renderman files and configuring a dizzying AV setup before all that stuff worked out of the box, he would throw himself into it and figure out what nobody else could. He wasn't interested in making games at the time we shifted to games, though it was kind of his idea, he would be better off missing that trip. We went off to different worlds, for many years.

About 10 years later, I ran into John v2 after many ups and downs, and we picked up where we left off with common interests of music, tennis, new technology, and non-standard cuisine (especially Korean) when we had time for lunch. He had become a real master of web development, and managing projects. Who is this guy  so learned, so good with relationships? He kept pulling in new delivery approaches into his repertoire, as well as a few of my talented former colleagues onto his teams. Politics, sci-fi, philosophy, travel, spirits, etc. There was never a dull moment in talking to John.

The John after that hiatus when we started catching up again, he had married Anita, then they had two lovely girls, and they were fixing up another house. It struck me how much of a family guy John had become. He told me being a husband and father, and watching Victoria and Morgan grow up with such unique personalities was the most worthwhile and fun thing he ever did. At the time I was not even close to that point in my life but I definitely see what he was talking about now.

Here's to you John. I think we can still learn something from you.

John is one of those people that you want nearby for a myriad of reasons. He was quiet, but never disengaged; brilliant, but not self-absorbed. He was always looking for ways to make his corner of the world a better placeand the comments on his FB page are a testament to his efforts. On a more personal level, John (and Anita and their girls) made himself more available to me after my mother's (his aunt) death three years ago. There was something about his quite but welcoming presence that was so inviting. We talked endlessly about the latest research on cognitive science and the way the human mind works. He actually introduced me to the research of Steven Pinker that has become a staple in my own work as a scholar of early Christian history and literature. We talked guitar too, and I regret that we never got a chance to play togetherbut it was not for his lack of invitation. I suppose I was too embarrassed to play in front of him! Such a shame as he would not have cared. I was so incredibly privileged to know him and to be loved by him. I'll miss him everyday.

John Nicholas and I carpooled almost every work day for the years when we were both at SixtyFootSpider. Some days he subjected me to what I called "his horrific music choices" and some days he tolerated my own horrific choices. I learned a lot about music in that time and every day was an NPR-esque discussion on the latest topics. He was usually more open minded than judgmental and he loved any differing opinion that would lead to discussion.

I remember how excited he was the Monday I picked him up after Victoria had taken her first steps and I remember the joy in his voice when Morgan was born. He was always in awe of Anita Nicholas' quick proficiency at taking care of everything. "I don't know," he would say, "But Anita will." He relied on her and knew that she would always know the best way to handle anything.

One time at work when we were all going to lunch we asked if we could bring him anything and he said "Just get me their most popular lunch item, whatever it is." I was stunned by this and said "What if it has onions or BBQ sauce or something crazy?!" And he just shrugged and said "You can't go through life without trying new things." I think of that moment and John every single time I'm approached by something new.

Our families remained friends over the years and although we didn't see each other as often, I always knew that I could text John when I came across something in the news that made me laugh or that worried me about the future. He never failed to give an opinion or add a thought-provoking comment. John loved to wander off the beaten path. He was brilliantly intelligent, wildly curious and fascinated by the world. He adored his wife and both of his sweet girls, he loved each and every member of his family. The world is a lesser place without him in it and I will forever miss my dear friend.

This man, John Nicholas, is a very special person, when I first me him nearly 20 years ago, it was in an interview, he told me he was the fastest coder this side of the Mississippi. I sort of believed him  there was a genuine quality that he expressed  I hired him and came to find that probably to be true. That along with a whole host of other remarkable attributes. One of the most learned and intellectually curious people I have ever met, whether it was family, music, quantum theory, futurists, or finding ways to give back  always allowing himself to be astonished.
He has had and will continue to have an impact on my life by virtue of his very nature: authentic, considered. kind, and true.

Love you John.

John could make the toughest working environment or project enjoyable. He taught without getting frustrated, he was quiet, patient, and a friend at work. And the rare occasion he did allow himself to get angry, it was an epic event talked about with a combination of disbelief and smiles. He had that dumb painting on velvet in his office. Ha! We went through some tough working situations together and the highlights of those times were my memories of you. I'm sure these last few years will be remembered the same way. The highlights of the tough times will be your quiet persistence, your steady leadership, and your loyal friendship. My thoughts and prayers are with the Nicholas family.

Saddened to hear that John Nicholas passed away from cancer. He was a tremendously kind human that made the world a much better place. He will be sorely missed. My heart breaks for his wife and daughters.

Missing my friend John Nicholas today; a rockstar in so many different aspects of life.

When I first moved to Dallas, the first two people I worked under was Anthony Glass and another guy John Nicholas. I was new to working on web sites and John seemed to know everything. He was smart and someone I tried to learn everything I could from. Finally, after a couple of months of working with these guys I found something John didn't know. I was stunned and happy. If I could figure something out that John couldn't, then I must be making progress. Today, I found out that John passed away after a two year battle with cancer. It sucks. No other way to post it in a family friendly way.

John was probably one of the nicest and smartest people I've ever known. He unknowingly set a goal for me to beat. Be as good as John or better. I'm not sure if I'll ever be better but I'd be happy to even get close. He was a good friend, and so very kind to everyone. I wish the world could be a lot more like John, and hopefully at least me and the rest of his friends can do our bests to emulate him. He was far to young to die when so many evil men walk the earth. We were all lucky to have known him. My heart is heavy and my thoughts and prayers go out to Anita and their lovely daughters on the tough days ahead.

I worked with John at Temerlin McClain for quite some time. One of the most kind-hearted and likable people I have worked with - and extremely talented. He will be greatly missed. Prayers for you and your family.

I haven't seen or spoken with John in a long time. 
But many years back we worked together. He was one of the smartest people I have ever known. He was so smart even his humor was almost over my head. 
He was a great friend and co-worker! Our little group was very close and I'm glad I knew him. 
I will be praying for your family and especially the girls and Anita which he spoke about all the time!

We first met John when he was an über bright little boy of 8 or so.  He always impressed with his sharpness and ability to do so much more than schoolwork (like gymnastics). He chose a beautiful and talented wife and made his family and friends proud in every way.  We are so thankful that he knew Jesus as his Lord and Savior and that we will see him again one day.

To me, John was an exceptional boss, genius software developer and wonderful conversationalist. It was my honor to work with him and get to know him. He made a great impact to the company he worked for and his legacy will continue to grow on the foundation he laid.  He'll be missed as a wise leader, loving father, carrying husband and thoughtful friend to many of us...

I had the pleasure of working with John for about 4 years, and could always count on a friendly "hey" when walking into his office. 

My favorite John story is when we were traveling to OKC one night for a meeting the next morning. We were talking about hobbies outside of work and he explained his love for music. John then took over the radio with his playlist and we rocked out for the rest of the trip. 

He will be greatly missed.

I'll remember John as a respectful and highly respected individual. In my encounters with him, he was more reserved. But when he did speak, the room stopped and listened, knowing that whatever he had to say was going to carry great weight.

My deepest sympathy and sincere prayers to his family, friends and all the lives he touched.

With our deepest sympathy to Anita, Victoria, Morgan and all the family. May your memories of John help all of you through these very difficult times.  John will live on in Victoria and Morgan.  Lots of love as always, Julie, Dave and Scott xxx

I didn't get the chance to know John, but I've learned that he was a man of singular vision and dedication.  He sounds like someone who made the world around him a better place and I'm sad that I won't ever get to experience that.  

John hired me; he took a gamble that I could do the work and gave me a chance.  I wanted to thank him for that in person, but never had the opportunity... so I'll do it now.

Thanks for giving me a shot John, I appreciate it more than you know and more than I know to express.

I only had the honor of knowing John for a few years, but during that time I came to respect his quiet demeanor and devotion to the things he cared about. He had an insatiable thirst for knowledge and was one of the most intelligent people I have ever known. I will miss him.

I didn't know John very well, about 5-6 months, but he came off as compassionate and considerate. I would have liked to have had the time to get to know him better. 

Sorry for your loss.

I can honestly say that my Uncle John was one of the smartest, nicest and most caring individuals that I ever had the pleasure of knowing. He was smart in the way that made others feel smart too. Always easy-going, I can't think of a time when I saw John angry or upset. Even when I saw him battling cancer, he still pushed forward and saw life with a positive outlook. This world was definitely  made better because of him. His loving heart, compassion, intelligence and dedication to both his family and his work will be greatly missed by hundreds if not thousands. Robert F. Kennedy once said, "The purpose of life is to contribute in some way to making things better." That is what my Uncle John did and so much more. He made an impact in his work place, where he excellently served as a bridge between different groups of people. He made an impact in his family where he loved and taught his children, always willing to help them in any way he could. In conclusion, he made a worthwhile impact on this world and he will be greatly missed.

John and I met in the late 90's when we found ourselves dating siblings.  I got to watch as he and Anita fell in love, got married, and started their family together.  John and I enjoyed each other's company at family events and had many entertaining and intellectually stimulating conversations over the years.  I always admired his character and integrity.

To this day, he is one of the most intelligent individuals I have ever met.  Charles Lindbergh's wife, Anne, once remarked, The nice thing about really intelligent people is that when you talk with them they make you feel intelligent too  This was John.  He stimulated others to think; he listened, countered your remarks respectfully, and allowed opinions to evolve.  He was confident without being arrogant, hardworking and goal-oriented, loved life and sought to make the most out of it.  He was kind and giving of himself and his time.  He didn't speak down to others  including the kids (who loved him and admired him).  He was wickedly funny and clever.

I will miss John's smile and the twinkle in his eyes. I will remember John when I see a happy thought cross Anita's face.   I will think of John as I watch his beautiful daughters grow and see all the charming qualities of their dad in them.

In the words of the poet Ralph Waldo Emerson, To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of childrento leave the world a better placeto know one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded.  John was a huge success.

I knew John for 15 years and was grateful to call him my cousin (in-law) for 11 of those years. He was a quiet, kind, thoughtful, brilliant, loving, and generous man, & he left behind a family who loved him so much. It's hard to imagine this world without him here. He is already so missed. 

Anita, Victoria, & Morgan - I love you more than you know. You have shown such strength during this difficult time. Know that you are constantly in my thoughts.

I've worked with John for years (since we were in the Irving office) and always appreciated his calm presence. He seemed to be the quiet type, but also ready to offer a joke or enjoy one. His laugh was delightful. I'll miss him.

Dear Nicolas Family
We are saddened deeply by your loss.  You have struggled through so much and have always managed to be upbeat.  You are inspiration to us all.  We love you.
Dawn and Ashley Smith and Family

Nicholas Family, 
So sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time.

Anita, Victoria and Morgan, we are thinking of you all at this very sad time. Remember your dad will always be  in your hearts and memories, stay strong for each other. You have so much love surrounding you for support. Hugs and love from Aunt Dot. British Columbia Canada.

Victoria,
Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts.  I am so sorry for your loss.  Lean on your family and loved ones.  Don't be afraid to have some ugly cries and laughter/smiles when you remember the good times.  Take care of yourself and don't hesitate to reach out if you need someone with whom to talk.

Victoria, I'm so sorry about you losing your Dad. Just know that I'm thinking about you and your family and praying for you all to feel at peace.  Stay close to your family--you'll all need each other for the future.  Take care, my dear.

Mrs. Radebaugh

I first met John in 2003 through a mutual friend.  His vast knowledge, enthusiasm and dedication were immediately noticeable and contagious.  John had a thirst for knowledge that could not be quenched.  He was always at the forefront of the latest technology.  He led by example through tireless dedication and a calm demeanor even under stressful times.

Besides web development we had a common interest in music.  He was a prog rock aficionado.  If you ever wanted know the latest news about Dream Theater, John was your guy.  He turned me on to many incredible musicians and bands, some of which we were able to see in concert.  Those are some of my fondest memories, listening to an incredible band and seeing his face light up with a smile as we could both appreciate the virtuosity.

Three topics would always bring a smile to John's face.  Computers, music, and his children.  I will miss our conversations about the latest programming framework, the upcoming Aristocrats recording, and our kids' activities.  You will truly be missed, my friend.

One of the greatest minds I have ever had the honor to work with.  To paraphrase one of my favorite ad lines. "When John talked, we all listened!"

John made the world a better place and the impact he made will continue long into the future.

Rachel and I honored John by adding his name to the Kaddish list and reciting the Kaddish in his memory at Temple last Friday night. It gave me time to reflect on what a terrific human being John was. Kind, caring, unbelievably smart, quiet, unexpectedly funny and humble. What a pleasure it was to have known him. May his memory be a blessing.

Anita, we are so sorry to hear the very sad news of your loss. We only met John on a few occasions but it was clear that he was a devoted husband and father. We are thinking of you at these difficult times and sending you Victoria and Morgan our love xxx

John has been a member of our family for over 20 years, we have loved him being a part of it. He has given us two beautiful Grandchildren Victoria and Morgan whom we love very much and will be forever grateful. John was a quiet man and went along with all our English traditions including wearing paper hats from Christmas crackers at our Christmas dinners. He has fixed Alan's computer many times, some times coming straight from work, he has said many times OK, what have you done now?' You could ask John anything and he would know the answer, he was very intelligent, knowledgeable and interesting. He will be sadly missed by us and our families in England and Canada.
Anita, our Daughter loved John very much and her heart is breaking, she did every thing she could for John right up to the end, we are very proud of her. Marjorie and Alan

I was privileged to spend a large part of the past three years with John.  More than anything, it was
his thoughfulness that I will remember. Thoughtfulness not only in the common usage of caring for others, 
but he had an almost prescient ability to think deeply about so many topics.  John was quietly strong in how he tackled every situation he approached, and I know that that same quiet strength will live steadily on within his
family as they cope with such a devastating loss.

We traveled together, ate together, talked together, worked together, played guitar together and saw concerts together.  I miss you so much John.

John was such a lovely man, although we only met a few times he made a real connection with our boys through his love of music. Our sincere sympathy to Anita, Victoria and Morgan with lots of love at this very sad time. xxx

Anita, so very sorry to hear about your sad loss.  As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. we offer our heartfelt thoughts, and are thinking of you and the girls constantly.

With only love and respect for John's family. I know he is now in perfect health and he is filled with light and unspeakable joy that one day we will know when we meet face to face with Christ Jesus. He is even closer to his family and friends than he was while on earth. Hold on to knowing that you will see him again and he is still loving you and with you right now. 

Respectfully,

Our John passed away yesterday morning after an almost 2 year valiant fight with colon cancer. There was not a day that we were not grateful for the support, the sweet smile, the love, and the care his wife, Anita, showed to him, to their girls, and to us. He told me so many times how sad it made him to see people facing weeks of chemo, sick and alone, "but not one time have I ever had to go to chemo alone. Anita always plans a movie, a time to visit, always something to make it easier...and she is always there with me. I've never had to go through any of this alone, and I am so thankful for that!" As his parents, we were always so thankful for that, as well.
Words cannot express how terrible this journey was at times, but she was like a rock for him, and for their girls. I am thankful he had such an amazing wife and partner in his life, and 2 daughters he thought were amazing, as well. His eyes lit up when she came into the room, and if this had to happen, she has made it a bit easier each step. John was a precious gift and a joy to us; I will miss our talks, his smile, his eyes dancing when he was in the midst of discussing something new he'd learned or what his beloved girls were interested in....so many things we will miss, but we are thankful beyond words that he was ours for as long as he was. We loved him so much....
His statement to me during his illness was, "I am John Nicholas, I have a family I love, I love my work and I think I'm good at it, I play the guitar and love music and books, I have a good life I am thankful for....and I have cancer. Cancer does not define me, even though it is part of my life. But that's what it is...part of my life; it's not my life." He lived this every day since his diagnosis, and it was amazing to see, especially during the last few months.
Thank you, John, for being the son you always were...and thank you Anita, for walking this journey with him with such love; it meant so much to us, but even more to him.

OBITUARY

John Edward Nicholas

30 October, 1966 – 13 July, 2016

Sparkman/Hillcrest Funeral Home & Hillcrest Mausoleum & Memorial Park

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