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NameJerry Roskilly
Date2011-06-05
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MessageI received the message about Nick's passing from the Stagecoach Facebook posting. I did not know Nick but feel a kinship through our common passion for cycling. Very sorry to hear about this.

Jerry


NameMark Cole
Date2011-06-05
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MessageNick was always a pleasant guy. I worked with Nick at E&Y and although our interlude in life was rather brief and I hadn't seen Nick in 15 years, I remembered him instantly when asked. My prayers go up for Nick's family. My you rest in peace Nick.



Private Message added 2011-06-05


NameNeil Baljon
Date2011-06-05
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MessageNick and I met at the edge of the soccer field, when for one season our sons played in the same team. Mutually delighted to have found a partner we could talk cycling with, we had an instant click. I advised him about riding in the French Alps, wishing I could join him there. I actually rode with him just once. He impressed me. As it turns out, he was in between jobs and in that situation took his sport more seriously than ever. I never quite understood why he refused to join the Ranchos, but never lost hope either that some day we would ride together more frequently. He will be dearly missed - on the road, in the boastful chatter that goes with it, and everywhere else. To judge by the photos, he was a better cycling dad than I am. I never made it all the way to the desert on bikes with Mendel. Our thoughts and feelings (Mendel’s too) are with the family.


NameLynn Schulman
Date2011-06-05
MessageMy the light and love of God be with you. You have many good thoughts coming your way and I will be thinking of you every day.


NameShawn Evanko
Date2011-06-05
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MessageWe have met Nick a few times at school and I know Deb also from school. Such a tragic accident and we are so sorry for your loss. One thing I admire about the Venuto family is they seem like a very close family and I can see how much the kids were loved by Nick and Deb. Just looking at vacation pics, I can see what a loving family they have. Our prayers are with the the family now. God bless you.
With love, The Evanko Family


NameCristy Sackrider
Date2011-06-05
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MessageSadly, I only met Nick a few times. But I feel like I know him well. Ten years ago, I married David Sackrider. Since then, Nick has been a very real part of my life through the stories David tells and through the photos David's mom took and meticulously organized into years of photo albums.

But I need to thank Nick. I have been blessed with a loving, supportive and altogether amazing husband. And David wouldn't be the man he is today without Nick in his life. Through all their adventures and mishaps, these two navigated youth to become incredible men. In the time we have been together, I don't think David has gone a day without talking about Nick or something they did together.

I know David regrets not spending more time with Nick and you all in recent years. But I also know that Nick will live on for us through the stories (some might say legends) and photos of this incredible man and their enduring friendship.

Deb, words of sympathy seem almost trite right now....there just aren't words to describe this journey you and the kids are on. But know that we, like many of your friends, will be there for you in whatever ways you want, whenever you want us. And when the time is right, we want to give you copies of the many photos and videos we have and perhaps transcribe some of the stories for the kids.

God be with you and the family. We look forward to honoring Nick's memory with you next week.


NameJim Bentley
Date2011-06-05
Locationclick picture for more information
MessageI remember when Nick was an altar boy at St. Williams Catholic Church in Atascadero. Try as I might as a kid, I could never make him laugh when I stood in line to receive communion. His self-control was remarkable! And then there were the days at Santa Rosa Road Elementary School. He was the perfect student, the kind that I hope to get now as a teacher: gifted, witty, friendly, cooperative. A real quality guy. Throughout middle and high school, he continued to be a role model for the rest of us. I honestly don't know a single person who didn't like Nick. He was athletic. He was self-confident. He was an inspiring guy for his peers. After high school, I lost track of Nick and only reconnected via Facebook over the past couple of years. His children are lucky to have had such an amazing father. There's a common expression that the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. As a teacher, I see this with students and their parents. That said, Nick my not be here with us today, but his legacy will live on through his children (who must be quite spectacular in their own right) and through those he inspired. Happy riding, Nick. You will be missed but not forgotten. It's been an honor to call you a friend.


NameAndrea Lussier
Date2011-06-05
Locationclick picture for more information
MessageI didn't know Nick nor did I know his family but I know what it takes to have a happy fun filled family. After viewing these photos my heart is broken for his wife and children, friends and other family. The pictures depict an amazing husband and father so happy and full of life. I am so sorry for your loss. Prayers for peace and understanding go to all.
Andrea
(Rode that trail many times)


NameJim Knight
Date2011-06-05
Locationclick picture for more information
MessageI first met Nick when he rode the 2010 Stagecoach Century. My business partner, Larry Gitman, and I produce the Stagecoach event.

In Jan 2010 Nick raced on a 4-man team, "Team Forward Motion", along with Tony DiLorenzo, John Bittinger, and Scott Day. They scorched the 100-mile course, not only winning their Division, but setting a Course Record for the "Open Men 40+" Division. Their Winning/Record time was 5:14:40, and that Record still stands.

By 2011, Nick was a proud new member of the San Diego Descenders Club, racing on their "B-team" at Stagecoach. Nick was rapidly rising up through the Descenders club ranks and surely would have been on their "A-team" by 2012.

At the 2011 Stagecoach, I remember how happy Nick was on the start line on that sunny Jan morning in the desert 80 miles east of San Diego. He was smiling, cracking jokes, proudly wearing the Descenders jersey. Nervous energy, but determined and confident.

I clearly recall looking into his eyes as I counted them down to start, "5-4-3-2-1, Roll!" And they charged away. Nick's "B-team" would place 3rd on that windy & warm day, but all team members were happy and satisfied with their team effort.

To Nicholas & Marisa: Your Dad was one of the finest men I've ever known. It was a privilege knowing him. He had a kind word and smile for all. His cycling skills and long distance endurance were legendary, especially on difficult climbs, where he excelled. Your Dad's Memory will live on forever.


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