Nick grew up in very humble beginnings in West Virginia. He always called himself an Irish hillbilly. His dad died when Nick was five years old. Being the oldest, he assisted his mother is raising the kids and assisting with providing for the family. He was interested in enlisting in the Marines since he was 13 years old. Much to his mother’s dismay, he enlisted in the Marines right after high school graduation, foregoing a full ride college scholarship to Ohio State in wrestling.
After basic training, he was sent directly to Viet Nam in 1968 during the TET offensive. His tour of duty lasted twenty years serving as a drill sergeant and ultimately becoming officer, after seven attempts. Tenacity was one of Nick’s strengths. He served in tours in Viet Nam, Japan, and Germany. His last mission was to Coronado in San Diego as a camera person wing man. He retired as a 1st Lt. Captain.
After leaving the service, Nick worked 13 years as a Senior Appraiser for the State Board of Equalization and then 2 years as a Supervising Appraiser at the Sonoma County and Orange County.
Nick’s hobbies included scuba diving (he held a Masters Diver’s Certificate), helicopter pilot, restoration of cars, carpentry, woodworking projects, and traveling to Hawaii. Nick lived in Hawaii for a time to pursue an appraisal career. He had purchased a condo in Hawaii. His goal was to retire there. Nick loved the ocean!
Nick adored his wife, Tracy. They met in the fall of 2003 when Nick was in the Assessor’s office performing an audit. At the end of the audit, Nick asked Tracy to go to dinner at Butterfield’s and then, they toured Christmas Tree Lane. Their second date was at Roger Rocka’s on New Years Eve. Everyone was excited and concerned when Nick asked Tracy out on their third date – he sent her a plane ticket to Hawaii for a 5 day visit…. and the rest is history.
Nick was passionate about defending this great nation, his faith in the Lord, and helping people less fortunate. He was always the first to help the homeless on the street. He tried to assist those that were ignored by society. He sought to see the best in everyone. He was tech savvy, loved photography, and could read a “how to” manual on anything and master that craft just by reading the instruction manual.
Nick was predeceased by his parents, Kermit and Roselia Duncan and his first wife, Laura Winters. He leaves behind his wife of 19 years, Tracy, as well as two sons from his previous marriage, Shannon Winters and Chris Winters.
Tracy and her family wish to thank Joseph Medina for his constant support, friendship, care, and support for Nick this past nine years. Nick was in excellent health for the most part, due to the amazing care that he received. Without Joseph’s help, Tracy could never have cared for Nick at that same level. Tracy and Joe both showed that they possess servant’s hearts and extended Nick’s life through the gift of healing, compassion, and love.
Remembrances in the name of Nick Winters may be made to Central Valley Honor Flight c/o Central Valley Community Foundation 1260 Fulton Street, Suite 200, Fresno, CA 93721 and The Wounded Warrior Project at www.woundedwarriorproject.org.
I tell you the truth, anyone who believes has eternal life. John 6:47
