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I remember when Nick used to try and engage me in all kinds activities, from snowboarding to my first job at 13. He would always treat me as if I was his little brother and we'd laugh all the time (no matter how stupid the joke was). He had so much to offer and I am very very sad he had to go so soon in his life and mine. I will always miss you buddy. You are a part of me.

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nicoleyager
11 years ago

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nicoleyager
11 years ago

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nicoleyager
11 years ago

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Mike Baron
13 years ago

Nick D drove out to Fort Collins, CO to stay with me 1998. By the end of the trip he knew more people in my dorm than I did. The man taught me how to live in the moment better than anyone I've ever known. He was a real friend and I miss very much. One time in middle school his band covered the songs "got the time" by Anthrax and "Thunderkiss 65" by White Zombie. Durning the guitar solo on one of the songs, Nick D slammed the Mic down, jumped off stage and charged right into me and started an epic mosh pit. Then as he scrambbled to get back to the stage he slipped on some root beer and landed on his ass. He refered to the move as a "bundy", in honor of Al Bundy, and said it anytime we saw anyone fall down. I still say the term "bundy" in my head when I see people fall over because of that. Heres a link to one of the songs. Picture Nick D belting out the lyrics and it'll bring a smile to your face. Miss you brother. Mike B http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OdD2Spp26vs

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Alex Braden
13 years ago

This is a great story, Mike. I was actually the drummer in Nick D's middle school band (we were called "Spork", in the unlikely event that you'd forgotten). I don't specifically recall the bundy incident, but I can certainly picture it happening. Although your note gives the impression that Spork tended toward the heavier end of the early '90s rock spectrum, one of our staple jams was The Spin Doctors' classic "Two Princes." We used to practice in my basement, and when we rehearsed this song my parents would sneak downstairs to eavesdrop as Nick hollered, with unbridled gusto and a joyful disregard for conventional intonation, "Be-doo-be-doop-be-doo-be-doop-be-doo-be-doo-be-doo-be-doo-boo-da-ba-dee-boo-da-ba," etc. Invariably, the rest of the band, and my mom and dad (having scurried back upstairs) would bust out laughing, not so much because Nick's rendition was unitentionally hilarious (which it was), but because the completely un-self-conscious pleasure he took in making a happy noise was totally infectious. After a short while, Spork split up -as all the great bands do- and Nick and I didn't spend so much time together anymore, but for years after the fact, my parents would always talk about what a warm, engaging kid Nick was and how impressed they were that this teenage boy would actually go out of his way to strike up a friendly conversation with them whenever he came over for band practice. When my folks and I heard about Nick's passing, we were terribly sad, of course, and we got to reminiscing a little about those days so many years ago. It wasn't long before someone brought up "Two Princes" and we all found ourselves laughing at the memory. Mike, it's nice to hear that the sight (and sound) of Nick making a happy noise had the same effect on you. -Alex

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Ted Buselmeier
14 years ago

Nick D the funny Greek, Friend to all folks and freaks, Nick D, always a smile on this face, A warm "hello" for the whole human race, Nick D. gives that special look, Makes me feel #1 in his book, NIck D, thank you for all your love, I'll keep an eye out for you up above. .....Nicky and I went through thick and thin together- he always had a positive attitude through it all, even when I went off the deep end. Nick's love saved me through many scrapes and his warm heart comforted me in my most troubling times. After many failed experiments, laughter ended up being the best medicine after all. I love you Nicky.

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Jim Boosalis
15 years ago

Nick was one of a kind. He always had a kind word with that engaging smile. He really had a gentle soul. In our Greek family, it is a tradition that the groom has a golf tournament outing for the wedding party and invited guests. My wedding tournament was July 16, 2004. I selected Nick on my team because he was a real joy and a lot of fun to play with for 18 holes of golf. Also, Nick was a great partner to calm me down before the altar festivities. The groom's team is always the last group to tee off in the wedding tournament. As the round progressed, we heard that 9 under was leading the "scramble" in the clubhouse! Nick took our team on his shoulders and we played his ball for the remaining 5 holes to win the tournament by one shot. At the 19'th hole celebration, I thanked Nick for his marvelous play down the stretch on the final holes. Nick turned to me a said, "Cousin Jim a.k.a. Metoo... I refused to let you lose your wedding tournament. The groom never loses!" With that, Nick flashed his winning smile and our team received the 1'st place trophy! I played numerous rounds of golf with Nick at Interlachen C.C. and each shot and round were very memorable. We always talked and compared the "latest & greatest" in golf club technology. Nick knew the true meaning of family. He was a great cousin and friend! Our "Niata" family will miss him greatly. We love you, Nick!!!!! May Your Memory be Eternal... Love, Jim Boosalis from TN.

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steve pittman
15 years ago

i can't think of nicky without thinking first of that big grin he always carried around, that alone could change your day. match that with his larger than life persona and the guy was just off the charts. i was so lucky to share many memories with nicky, from meeting him at St. T's and then sharing a house with him at Marshall and Moore, attending graduation together, our little stint in the construction biz (That's Josh Hartnett's House!), laughing at the most outrageous curly blond haired mullet ever seen at the Cabooze, i could go on and on. every time i think of what nick was up to on a day to day basis, i couldn't help but giggle a little. nick had an aura he carried with him that made everyone feel like a friend. one good story from nick (the best at it i've ever known) would have everyone rolling on the floor, wiping the tears away. nick was a good and special friend and i am lucky to have known him. we'll all miss you.

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Pat Addy
15 years ago

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Pat Addy
15 years ago

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Pat Addy
15 years ago

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Pat Addy
15 years ago

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Pat Addy
15 years ago

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Pat Addy
15 years ago

Nick and I met at Orientation before Freshman year at St. Thomas. We each had huge personalities that did not know how to blend at first. As time went on, they figured out how to blend. We had the best of times together! We golfed together. We played foosball together. We walked together from house to house, to house to house. Nick had so many friends and was ALWAYS welcome, or even expected to grace people with his presence. I will remember the"Mansion on Marshall", the lowertown lofts in downtown St. Paul, Selby-Dale, and Edina. I will NEVER forget spending Christmas Day with the Dovolis family!! I was unable to make it down to Omaha to be with my family for Christmas in 2003. My friend Nick was there for me. He called and insisted that I spend Christmas with his family and friends. That really meant a lot to me. Thanks! I will always remember the Farmers Market and Rudolph's. I will always remember sitting around with Nick and watching the "Greatest Outfield Assists" major league highlight video. WOW! We were both so amazed...and actually were able to stay put long enough to watch the entire thing. I will always remember watching Don Rickets comedy and belting out laughs with Nick. I think the neighbors are still trying to get over the loud laughter noise... I will always remember trading stories about Entrepreneurship classes, faculty, and students. I will always remember the Canterbury Dance in Shakopee. I will always remember joking about people's "salads". We loved "charing" stories with one another. I enjoyed all of Nick's "NICK-names" for people. What a smart and crafty man! "Get to know 'em" These were great words Nick spoke. He was ambitious in getting to know EVERYONE he met. He had so many friends because he got to know everybody. Miss you! You will always be Addy's Chronie! Thanks for being Nic D, The Gentleman from Nebraska, Pat Addy

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Wendy Miller
15 years ago

I was friends with Nick at St. Thomas. He was so much fun to be around. I hung out with Nick my last night in MN after graduation and he was wearing a hot pink linen blazer. I haven't talked to Nick since then, but I was hanging out in a bar in Missoula, MT last summer and met some guy who had gone to St. Thomas for one year and knew Nick. I think everyone at St. Thomas knew and loved him. He was a celebrity.

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josh bergeron
15 years ago

I am so proud to say that I have known Nick for 20 years. I was eight when Nik Kouzes first was invited to attend St. Mary's Greek camp. I was the only Jewish kid (ever, I think) to be a camper and didn't know if I was goin to fit in or have fun. Not more than a day into the week Nick Dovolis had me rolling with laughter and feeling more than welcome. Nick helped to make sure that I felt like I belonged there. I had so much fun that first year that I kept going back year after year till we were too old to be campers. I have so many blessed memories from those weeks at camp and all the good times Nick and I and others had after camp. Nick was just so good at relating to people and bringing them together. Whenever I hung out with Nick it was a good time, I honestly can't remember having a bad time with him. I am thankful and honored to have been his friend and will always cherish the fun we had together...

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Marea Checheris
15 years ago

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Marea Checheris
15 years ago

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Marea Checheris
15 years ago

I think I'm one of about 500 people who considered Nick to be one of their best friends. I think I've known him since a month after I was born and I am proud and lucky to have grown up with him. There was something about the way that he could make a person feel. No matter how bad you felt about something, as soon as he walked into a room you were instantly comforted and happy just knowing he was there. He had his own struggles yet he was always there to talk me down from many a ledge over the years. His smile and his laugh were enough to make your darkest days so much brighter. We are all lucky to have known him, to have loved him, and to have been touched by his wit, wisdom, and love. I'll never get the chance to tell him thank you in this life again, but I hope that where ever he is now, he knows how much he'll be missed. And I'll take whatever comfort I can get knowing that I'll see him again on the other side. I'll love you forever, Nicky. You were one hell of an honorary brother. And a huge shining star in all of our lives. Love, Marea

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Eric Host
15 years ago

My name is Eric Host and I met Nick through a friend (John Krieger) of a cousin (Josh Hanson). I think I am a perfect example of the impact that Nick had on the people he came in contact with. I have been fortunate enough to know Nick through an annual Family/Friends golf tourney called the HAKM. Every year I make confim with cousin John that Nick is going to be there. This is because he singlehandedly makes the fun golf weekend even better. This was envident a couple years back when Nick did not make it to the HAKM. It was evident that there was a critical component missing that weekend and it was Nick. My thoughts and prayers go out to Nick's friends and family. Nick you will truly be misses by all.

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daniel dryden
15 years ago

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daniel dryden
15 years ago

She meet Nick that very night and and instantly wanted a picture with the Legend.

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daniel dryden
15 years ago

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daniel dryden
15 years ago

Nick with Robert, Chase and Tim Wilson from Urban Lights Music. They also met Nick that night and instantly became friends.

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daniel dryden
15 years ago

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daniel dryden
15 years ago

Nick with the boys @ Dan's 25th Birthday Party 7-24-03

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Tom Loftus
15 years ago

I met Nick through my brother Joe a number of times and my most vivid memories of him are from my brother's wedding. We were both best men at the wedding and we both were to give toasts at the reception after the wedding. I was picked as the "best man" officially but I knew that giving a toast knowing that Nick would give one was a very tall order. The only thing I could do was opt to go first so I wouldn't have to attempt to follow what I knew to be a great speech. He prepared well and I could see him making notes as the wedding entourage made its way to the reception. Any of those who heard the speech know that it was a smart move to go first for me. Nick delivered one of the best speeches given at a wedding or any other function at that. It was creative, hilarious and thoughtful. From my experiences with him, I think those three words ring the most true. He cared deeply about his friends and lived life with passion. One other quick memory that had me chuckle a bit was also in relation to Joe's wedding. We rented tuxes at Men's Warehouse who have a slogan that goes "You'll love the way you look. I guarantee it." Nick constantly repeated this phrase about himself and about how others looked great. Some people can't use the same joke over and over without it getting old. Every time Nick made the joke, I laughed. It was impossible not to.

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Anonymous
15 years ago

The laughter and the smile, and the green hat, and always, the Batcave at camp. Nick has been a blessing in our lives, reminding us to be kind to each other and enjoy the moments. Thank you for all you have taught us, Nick, and for bringing us all together all those years. Eternal Memory.

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Liz Rossini
15 years ago

When I think about Nick, I have one strong picture in my mind: his super-slick shoes. No matter what he was wearing, dress pants or lounge clothes, he always seemed to be wearing beautiful Italian leather shoes with no socks! My memories are strongest in that (sorry guys) messy, gross college house on Marshall. It was like a frat house but with no house mom. Nick and his fancy-schamancy shoes. (Gives me the giggles!) Another fantastic memory: Jessica and Joe’s wedding, The Toast. He had the whole crowd rolling on the floor and crying with laughter! He was such a great speaker, very creative and witty. And, I’ll always appreciate how generous he was socially. He made a point to talk to everybody, make everybody feel welcome and comfortable. I miss you, Nick!

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Josh Hansen
15 years ago

The first time I met Nick was an interesteing experience. He came in Joe Loftus's Dorm Room and without hesittation introduced himself with typical Nicky bravado, I did the same then he toned it down and went back to his room next door. I remeber thinking to myself that there was not way he could be serious, no one can carry himself like that and be serious. Who did he think he was. Well, as my relationship with him grew, I realized that he must have realized my hesitency that first meeting, because I only had Nicky at 50%. Nick was truly one of the most unique, interesting, funny, sincere peple you could ever meet. He had a way of bringing the best out of everyone. He also had a way to bring on memorible moments. Almost every encounter with Nick was a memorable one. Whether it was him donating his driver to Black Bear golf course, or introducing himself to my parents in one of the most authentic Spiderman Costumes I had ever seen, he always left a disticnt impression. I consider myself lucky to be able to say that he was my friend. We shared many of the same experiences, and while living together, we definately thought we were each other's Dr Phil, having heart to hearts that we both would probably be embarrassed about if those conversations had been heard by someone else. I will definately miss his smile, his infectious laugh, and all of the Nickyisms. But I will hold onto the many memories I have of him, and try and live by his example, which I think was that it is not enough to simply exist, it is our obligation to live. Appreciate friendship, show loyalty to family, and try and make everybody's life a little better. That is what I will hold onto. I love you Nick, until next time! Josh Hansen

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Josh Mahlen
15 years ago

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Denis Molloy
15 years ago

I was fortunate enough to be involved in a lot of memories with Nicky, but the one thing I have been thinking the most about this past week is his laugh. One good belly laugh from Nick would set the tone for the remainder of the evening. Pretty much anything the guy would say from that point on would have us grabbing our stomachs and wiping away tears we would be laughing so hard. I feel honored and blessed to have met Nick my freshman year at Saint Thomas. He taught me so much and we continued learning from each other over the course of the decade I was fortunate enough to have him in my life. He was a true friend. He was someone I knew I could trust. I never had to doubt the sincerity of his kindness because I learned early on that he had a heart of gold and the last thing he wanted to do was hurt anyone. The world will never know another man like Nick.

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Denis Molloy
15 years ago

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Denis Molloy
15 years ago

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Denis Molloy
15 years ago

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Denis Molloy
15 years ago

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nicoleyager
15 years ago

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loftusfamily
15 years ago

We Will Miss the Loving Tones of Nick’s Voice That welcoming way came from the soul “Glad to hear your voice” that was Nick We miss the loving tones of his voice That congenial co-natural invite in The joy you brought to those who knew you We miss the loving tone of his voice. It seems God invites quick wit like his Though in short supply in this realm now. We miss the loving tone of his voice. Words fail us often in our God conversation Maybe our quiet thoughts will do We miss the loving tone of his voice. He like we are immigrants of a sort And the tired, weary and poor know their own soul. We miss the loving tone of his voice. You don’t have to be a mystic to understand the Purpose of a unified field for the movement Of consciousness stands behind it To test the field of possibilities Outside the boundaries of time. We miss the loving tone of his voice. Bob and Mary Jo Loftus We are grateful our paths have crossed with Nick's. His hospitality, laugh and warmth on and off the golf course will always remain with us. Nick, your life has made a great difference in our lives, making us better people for having experienced you.

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loftusfamily
15 years ago

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loftusfamily
15 years ago

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Josh Mahlen
15 years ago

My friend Nick was an amazing person; I am sure that everyone will agree and this space will be soon be filled with numerous memories and stories that will make me smile. If you met him, you know that he was unforgettable in every way. I met Nick my freshman year of college at St. Thomas when we became roommates in the dorm. He instantly dubbed me "The Red-Haired Blue-Eyed Irishman" and I was introduced as such for many years. Within my first 12 hours of knowing Nick, I swear we had met every person at UST, explored not only both campuses but half of the St. Thomas neighborhoods, been invited to 6 parties and 10 organizational meetings, still had time to have friends over (and subsequently the resident advisor on duty), and find out that the downstairs vending machine at the dorm would make change for a dollar and still spit out the goods. Only spending 12 hours with Nick D. could accomplish so many tasks. During that year we became really close and I was lucky enough to get the chance to know the introspective man behind the smile and I can tell you that he was a kind, honest, and caring person who loved and cherrished his family and friends...all while being the most hilarious person I have ever met. His grasp of the english language and the ability to make up nicknames, catch phrases, and funny adjectives was truly one of his finest qualities. Does anyone here not have a Nick D nickname? My wife Laura and I were talking about Nick last night and remembering good times and funny stories and one came up that I still laugh about whenever she brings it up. We were at Laura's dorm in some study room and Nick must have been looking for me. Laura's roommate comes in and has this puzzled look on her face. She said, "someone called loooking for you." I'm like, "who was it?" She responds, "I don't know...but he called me babe and tiger and referred to you guys as two crafty individuals." That was my man, Nick D. We shared so many good times, from golfing at ICC and other courses around town, to hanging out in the backyard at the house with the Dovolis Family and the crew. We got into every kind of trouble and I think, one time, we even went to church. Nick was always treated like a king everywhere we went because he knew everybody and everybody loved him. That is how I will always remember him. I will miss my friend Nick for a long time and will think about him often. I am proud of everything he accomplished and honored to have been his friend for the 11 years I knew him. He was an athlete, a scholar, a stellar individual, and a gentleman. I was truly lucky to have crossed paths with the "Living Legend", Nick Dovolis. Josh Mahlen, "The Red-Haired Blue-Eyed Irishman"

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John Kasal
15 years ago

Nick was a very special person he and I were very close. He will be missed very much.

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Johnny Krieger
15 years ago

Every time I think of Nick I start laughing. Just seeing Nick and that big smile could put you in one of the greatest moods you probably would have been in since, well the last time you saw Nick. My name is Johnny though I was referred to by Nick often as "Cousin John". I met Nick through my cousin Josh Hansen many years ago and had many great times hanging out on the golf course, cabin, or anywhere Nick was. And since I was his friend Josh's cousin, I became Cousin John. One of my most stand out memories of Nick was when I met him and Joe Loftus at a golf course in Wisconsin one Saturday morning. As we all approached the putting green I proceeded to take my putter out of my bag. It happened to be a longer belly style putter at the time and Nick's eyebrows just about touched his hairline when his eyes opened up so wide with the loudest heckling laugh I think I ever heard over my putter. It was pretty funny and I obviously became self-conscious of my long putter after that but it was a joke that carried on for a couple years. My friends and I often referred to Nick as "Game Show". His physical appearance and enthusiasm was unparalleled and we often pictured him on some successful game show on TV. In closing I'm deeply sorry for the loss of NIck's family, he was truly more then words can express and fits all the great descriptions and beyond with his character, creative yet genius unique humor, and large heart. Even as more distant friend the world is not as bright of a place without the smile of this young man among us. Perhaps if we find a peaceful silence we'll still feel his smile shining on us from above. Johnny

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noelle bell
15 years ago

Nick's laugh and smile. Nobody on this earth has that devilish yet silly laugh and beautiful smile that's completely contagious. Nick was always so positive. He always made you feel welcomed and noticed, making sure to greet everyone individually and really, sincerely find out how you were doing. He was truly a joy just to simply be around. His 'vocabulary' is what sticks with me because he's always coming up with and using the best phrases, even if they were other's quotes, I remember them as Nick's because he used them best. My favorite that he used often that I still use..."Pillar of your community"....."You're a scholar and a star, Nick."

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nicoleyager
15 years ago

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nicoleyager
15 years ago

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nicoleyager
15 years ago

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Joe Loftus
15 years ago

There are so many fun times I had with Nick. He was always a shining star. . He could make me laugh and smile by his presence alone. I know he brightened everyone's lives that he touched. He made me a better person by watching how he treated others with respect and kindness. He had a way of making you laugh without making putting anyone down. And then their is the "Nick D"isms. His use of spoken punctutaion in sentences like "However semi-colon". Phrases like, "kissing like a cow, touch of a gorilla, and so on. Nick was one of a kind. Nick was one of a kind not only by making evryone laugh but you knew he cared. Nick's humorous ways were only surpassed my the size of his heart. He spoke to me about how much he cared about all his friends and family. He was worried about everyone else. He was a man of the people. I could go on forever but I will cut it short by saying, "I love you nick and in your one trip through life on earth you made everyday count." I am proud to be your friend.

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nicoleyager
15 years ago

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nicoleyager
15 years ago

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nicoleyager
15 years ago

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