Obituary of J. NICK

J. George Nick Peacefully passed away on February 25, 2010 at Misericordia Place, Winnipeg at the age of 93 years. George is survived by his three children, Maureen Hums (Bruce), Sanford (NC), Jim Nick (Shanley), St Andrews, MB and Colleen Nick-Johnson (Lloyd), Winnipeg, five grandchildren, Michael Hums, Tracy McKimmon, Christopher, Ryan, and Alanna Nick. Three great grandchildren: Hanna Nick, Ryan and Owen McKimmon and his brother William Nick (Lee) of White Rock, BC. He was predeceased by his loving wife Agnes, sisters Frances, Anne, Ellanor, Marjorie, Babe and brothers John and Robert. Born in Winnipeg on November 1, 1916, Dad graduated from Issac Newton High School where he developed his passion for gymnastics and athletics. In his early years, Dad volunteered as an instructor at the Universal Athletic Club. The UAC provided physical recreation opportunities for thousands of young "north-enders" during the depression years. In July 1939 Dad was appointed assistant physical director of the Gimli Community Leadership School under the Dominion-Youth Training Plan. In October of the same year, Dad was appointed supervisor of Physical Training and Community Centres for the province. Dad was a founding member of the Five Windsors Acrobatic Team that toured Manitoba and other provinces. During World War II, Dad was a flight sergeant in the R.C.A.F. serving as chief instructor, School of Physical Training and Drill, Trenton, Ontario. In 1950, he was president of his graduating class of Health and Physical Education at the University of Toronto (BPHE Hons.) After graduation, Dad and family returned to Winnipeg and was appointed Assistant Director of Physical Education, MB Teachers College. From 1963 to his retirement in 1976 Dad held the position of Supervisor of Physical Education for the province of MB. After retirement Dad volunteered for numerous non-profit organizations in and around the Winnipeg area. Dad's first priority was his family. He was a devoted husband, loving father, doting grandfather, and friend to all. Dad was a true gentleman who always put others before himself and made a contribution to many people's lives. He loved to spend time with family, laughing and telling stories. He enjoyed family camping vacations, trips to the Winnipeg beaches and just being around those he loved. He was supportive, encouraging, but never demanding. Dad had a way of always bringing the extended family together and we thank him for that. He was a voracious reader and published author who wanted to make a positive difference in people's lives and he did. We will love him forever. The family thanks the staff of Misericordia Place for their compassionate care and comfort. A memorial service will be held on Friday, March 5, at 2:00 p.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main Street. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dad's memory to the Misericordia Foundation. Cropo Funeral Chapel 586-8044