John Anthony Nicolaysen
August 18, 1967 - December 27, 2014
John Anthony Nicolaysen
"Pizza"
Referred to lovingly as "Pizza", John Anthony Nicolaysen passed away unexpectedly on December 27, 2014. Born on August 18, 1967 to Elaine Polychronis and Gary Nicolaysen in Salt Lake City, Utah. John grew up in Holladay with his best friend and younger brother Justin. John was a member of the Greek Orthodox Church and graduated from Olympus High School continuing his education at the University of Utah with a B.S. in Economics. Pizza truly came into his own as a member and President of the Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity.
From a young age, John was an avid competitor and sports enthusiast. Kind, generous, and loyal, Pizza loved and was loved by all those who knew him, with the exception of the fans of any team his beloved Utes played, the Utes offensive coordinator and Ray Giacoletti. He excelled at work and was well-respected by his employers and colleagues. As a founding committee member of the Elyse Pantke White Foundation, he helped raise thousands for breast cancer research each year. Yet, his proudest accomplishment was as a devoted father to his boys, Alec and Joe.
Genuine in his care and concern for others, John had the ability to light up any room with his smile, laughter, and larger-than-life personality that had an impact on everyone he met. He had an uncanny ability to make everyone he knew feel special and important. The world was a better place with him in it and all who knew him are blessed to have shared time and space with him. John was a gentle giant that loved unconditionally, he will be missed but never forgotten.
An amazing father, brother, son, cousin, grandson, nephew and friend, John is survived by his mother Elaine; father and step-mother Gary and Cynthia; brother and sister-in-law Justin and Maryann; sons Alec and Joe; grandmother Arline; as well as many other cousins, aunts, uncles and friends; and lastly Jennifer Clark who had recently brought John a tremendous amount of happiness and joy.
An open house celebration of John's life will be held on Friday, January 2, 2015 from 6-8 pm at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Complimentary valet parking will be provided on the north side of the building. Interment will take place January 3, at noon at Mount Olivet Cemetery, 1342 East 500 South, Salt Lake City.
May John's memory be eternal.
In Loving Memory
I am saddened to hear of John's passing. My condolences to his sons, family and all loved ones. When we are fortunate to be surrounded by a great man, all too often the flame burns too quickly, leaving all in disbelief when he is gone. John was that light to so many...
Rhett D. Curry
Battle Creek, Mi
Pat and the boys will be attending but as I will not here is the poem I posted on Facebook for John and all that loved him: Unable are the Loved to die For Love is Immortality, Nay, it is Deity— Unable they that love—to die For Love reforms Vitality Into Divinity. - Emily Dickenson
Christi Rigby
Denver, Co
Pizza was a fine man and an example of gentlemanly kindness to all who knew him. My condolences Gary & Cynthia
Cherry Ridges
Salt Lake City, Ut
Dear family, I am one of John's co-workers at Stoel Rives. The shock of hearing of John's passing can't be understated but I know of John's great faith and commitment to his religious beliefs. I hope that brings you comfort as well. I will certainly miss seeing John peer around the corner looking to see if a certain co-worker was at their desk ... he loved to tease this person and I found I looked forward to these fun encounters. This among many other things will I miss.
Mary Louise Miner
Layton, UT
Dear Elaine and Family, We are so sorry to have heard about John's passing. We loved him, and always looked forward to seeing him at the Utah games. May fond memories of him always be in your hearts. God Bless you and your family during this difficult time. Angie Tucker Nielsen and Elizabeth Kyriopoulos.
Angie Tucker Nielsen
Herriman, Ut
My sincere condolences to all of John's family and friends, for I know what a wonderful person you have lost in your lives. No matter how many times I asked him the same questions over and over, I always felt John's great patience and kindness at work. He always treated everyone with respect and friendliness and he will be so greatly missed. Thank you for letting us share his life.
Kris Blust
Herriman, Ut
Dear Gary and family, I'm so sorry to learn of the passing of your son. I didn't know him, but from reading about his life, I'm sure you are vary proud to be his family. Knowing that he was one of my Alpha Tau brothers in Pi Kappa Alpha, with you, I wanted to let you know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I hope one day we'll see one another again and drink a beer to his memory. In phi, phi, K A, Big Stowe
Larry Stowe
Williamsburg, VA
Gary and Family, We were stunned by John's passing at such a prime age. It reminds us that all existance comes with a special lifetime warranty. Some of us walk on the highwire of life while others follow the book. John's obituary speaks to his choice to achieve his goals and spread the love.
Dick and Marilyn Wallin
SLC, UT
Justin sorry for your loss...thinking of you at this time
Ana dela Cruz & Londa Smith
Salt Lake City, Ut
Elaine and family - I can't express how saddened both Jason and I were to hear of John's passing. He was such a special part of my life as well as Jason's. Our love, thoughts, and prayers are with you during this difficult time and always. Love to you all!
Wendy Salvesen
Salt Lake City, Ut