Nicholas England

Nick was born in Lancaster on July 15, 1950, to Harold and Janet England. He was married to his beloved wife, Joan (Bowes) England, for 44 years.

Nick was the founder of Nick’s Pizza, which began in Somerset, Ohio, in 1977. In 1992, he moved the restaurant to its current location in Lancaster, where he worked alongside his wife, children, and grandchildren until his retirement in 2012. Even after retirement, Nick never really stopped working for the people around him. He went on to work with Meals on Wheels for several years, a role that allowed him to continue doing something he loved—helping others and serving his community.

Nick’s faith was at the center of his life. His passion for his faith led him to attend school to become a deacon at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Lancaster, the same church where he grew up. He served as a deacon from June 6, 2015, until his retirement in January 2023. His service to others, however, continued throughout the community until the very end of his life. Nick loved jail ministry, visiting those who were sick in the hospital, and participating in numerous prayer groups throughout the area.

One of Nick and Joan’s most meaningful traditions was the free Christmas Eve breakfast they created for the community. What began as an act of kindness became a tradition that touched countless lives. It has left a lasting impact on the community and remains something his children—and now his grandchildren—look forward to every year.

Nick had a quick wit and a story for just about everything. He loved sharing a good joke, making people laugh, and spending time with friends, especially during his many days at Nick’s after retirement. He could be stubborn—something he proudly inherited from his mother—and, according to those who knew him best, more than a little thick-headed. But beneath that stubbornness was a man who was deeply passionate about his faith, fiercely devoted to the people he loved, and always willing to help someone in need. He loved playing Santa and bringing joy to others, serving his community, and simply being around people. Nick loved music, playing guitar, and going to the movies. He loved riding his motorcycle, but more than anything, he loved being on the water—especially on his boat at Buckeye Lake, where some of his happiest memories were made taking his children out on the water.

Nick is survived by his children, Adam (Karen) England, Sara (Danny) Sells, Noah (Jennifer) England, Leah (Rick) Davis, and Kara (Kenni) Hill; 28 grandchildren; and 3 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joan; his parents, Harold and Janet; his brother, Steve; and his great-grandchild, Kambri.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all of Nick’s medical professionals who cared for him throughout the years, especially Dr. Walker and his team and Dr. Carr. The family would also like to thank the many, many friends who spent countless hours with Nick at Nick’s, talking, laughing, and simply keeping him company, particularly after the passing of Joan. Those friendships meant more to Nick and his family than words can express.

Nick chose one final way to help others. His final wishes were to donate his body for medical research at The Ohio State University. It was a fitting final act for a man who spent his life serving others and giving back to his community. And, in true Nick fashion, there was one last bit of humor in it—after being a lifelong Michigan fan, he would finally get to wrap up his time teaching as a Buckeye.

A service celebrating Nick’s life will be held at St. John’s Episcopal Church on September 10, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. A celebration of life will immediately follow at American Legion Post 11 in Lancaster.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you be kind to your neighbor and do something for your community. In doing so, we hope you will carry forward the spirit of service that meant so much to Nick.

Nick will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

May light perpetual shine upon him.