John N Nikols

We lost our deeply loved father, grandfather (Papou) and great grandfather who is now in the presence and glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. John exuded integrity, optimism and possessed a charitable giving heart. He loved his family and his passion for life has left a beautiful legacy that will never be forgotten.

John was born to Nikiforos and Maria (Limberakis) Nikolakakis, July 29, 1935 in Pelakapina, Crete, Greece. At 19, he legally immigrated to the United States and resided in Salt Lake City, Utah where he met and married his beautiful wife Mary (Pappidakis) Nikols of 54 years until her death in 2011. Together they raised 4 children: Nick J. (Denise) Nikols; Diana J. (Jim) Nicholas; Michael J. (Angela) Nikols; Matthew J. (Liz) Nikols and 7 grandchildren: Mary Nikols, John Nikols; Anthony (Bethany), John, Christopher (Angeline), James Jr. (Marissa) and Ariana Nicholas, 8 great grandchildren: Demetri, Eliana, James lll, Sophia, Evangelia, Lilly, Emma and Esther Nicholas.

John was proud of his Greek heritage, but equally a proud American. He was always thankful for the land of opportunity for a better life. John’s first job in Salt Lake City was AJAX Presses working for the Strike Brothers. He excelled at whatever he put his hands to with his determination and excellent work ethic. On April 8, 1958, John was drafted and served in the U.S. Army’s 3rd Armored Division stationed in Germany and met Elvis Presley who happened to serve at the same time. John was honored to serve his country and was honorably discharged returning to Salt Lake City starting his own business partnering with his brother Nick Nikols. Together they opened the first Coachman’s Dinner and Pancake House on 3434 So. State Street in 1962. Later in 1968, Nick left to open Restaurant Minoa as John continued at Coachman’s and later built and opened Coachman’s in 1975 at its current location 1301 So. State Street.

John truly had the gift of hospitality. As a successful restauranteur, Coachman’s became one of Salt Lake City’s landmark family restaurants. John created a family atmosphere making customers feel like good friends. He considered it a pleasure to serve his patrons of 60 years delivering excellence in food and service.

To our father and Papou, thank you for your love, legendary personality, and devotion. We will always have you in our hearts and we will always remember you. You will be greatly missed. May your memory be eternal!

Viewing will take place at Wasatch Lawn Mortuary, 3401 Highland Drive on Thursday, August 31st from 6:30-8:30 pm with a trisagion service/prayer at 7pm.

Funeral service is Friday, September 1st at Prophet Elias, 5335 So. Highland Drive at 11:00 am. Interment at Mt Olivet Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to the Greek Orthodox Church.