Thomas Nick died at Belton Memorial Hospital on October 8, 2020. Tom was born in Kansas City, Kansas on October 28, 1953 to Robert E and LaWanda Nick. He lived most of his life in Kansas City, Kansas; he graduated from Bishop Ward High School; attended Saint Mary College, Leavenworth KS; and graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree. His love of sports was demonstrated by his devotion to KU basketball, Notre Dame football and the New York Yankees. Tom served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War era.
His teaching career spanned 15 years in the Kansas City Kansas Public School system, including positions at Northwest Middle School and F.L. Schlagle High School. He taught Mathematics classes and was devoted to his students, some of whom returned after graduation to express their appreciation to “Mr. Nick.” During his teaching career he coached the freshman football team and always looked forward to October, the start of football practice. He retired from teaching in 2004.
Tom married Elaine Ruether on August 2, 1980. They celebrated their 40th anniversary this past summer. Tom was devoted to his children, Josh and Joanie. Family was his first love. He was the oldest of seven siblings and adopted brother of the Ruether clan. Family gatherings, laughter and storytelling were great fun for the boisterous family gatherings.
Tom is preceded in death by his father, Robert E Nick. Tom is survived by his wife, Elaine, of the home; son, Joshua, of Overland Park, KS; and daughter, Joan, of Washington DC. He is survived by his mother, Lawanda Nick; sisters Sharon Nick, Debra Huggins, Mary Byrd (husband Kevin) and Paula Bundy (husband Mark); and brothers Robert J Nick and Steven Nick (wife Melody) and nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery, Higginsville, MO on Monday, November 23, 2020, at 3pm. Memorial contributions may be made to the Midwest Transplant Network, Westwood, KS.
Tom will be greatly missed for his caring soul, his love of sports and his legendary stories and fun times with family and friends
