Book of Memories for Christopher John Nikka

Story shared: Chris' first day at Pflugerville High School

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 02:58:10 EDT

On our way to Sea World for a Biology field trip when we were barely teenagers, I looked over at a new guy on the bus and, as a natural social butterfly, asked him who he was and where he came from. We got to talking and, knowing that it was his very first day at our school and that we were, literally, the first students he had encountered, I invited him to hang out with my group of friends for the day. Before that day was done, it was as if we had known each other for years. Here's the funny part of the story that I will never forget; Nikka (as I had started calling him within 30 mins of meeting him because I thought his last name sounded cool) and I sat together in the bus on the way back. My, then, boyfriend and my mutual friends felt like they should warn Chris that I was "taken" and attempt to intimidate him. Who knows why but to, maybe, exude testosterone like high school boys do. Before I even told them to take a hike, Nikka just looked at them, laughed and went back to our conversation. My friends didn't know what to say so I just looked up and laughed at them while rolling my eyes. They sat down and joined in the conversations for the rest of the trip, as if Nikka had "passed". Chris wasn't overly- confident, by any means, but not shy, either. It was hilarious and made us instant friends through high school and into adulthood. It is the type of friendship where we could go a year or 5 without any contact, but when we came back together it was as if we had never lost time. The type of friend you always ask about and wonder how he or she is doing. That was the impact he had on my life, as well as my family's... I thought I'd tell the story of his first day as a freshmen at Pflugerville High because it might make for some interesting reading for his kids when they go through this later. My memory of him will always start with that very first meeting and how we were friends, estranged at times, until the day he left us.

Condolence From Tara Watts

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 02:13:04 EDT

The entire Watts family is distraught over Chris's passing and want to send our heartfelt condolences. Chris and I met when we were both 14 years old and grew together during his years living in Austin. He became very close to my entire family so we are all still in such disbelief and wish the family, especially his wife and children, the best during this horribly difficult time. You're always in our thoughts and prayers.

Condolence From Tom Hodapp

Sat, 26 Sep 2015 15:42:02 EDT

My heart is made heavy by the sorrow that must certainly be felt by the friends and family of one whose life has ended too soon. I pray that the heaviness of sorrow is soon lifted, that hearts burdened with this loss are soon lifted. I pray that peace is found both by Chris AND by those left behind. God Bless.

Condolence From Mignon Clark

Fri, 25 Sep 2015 13:13:47 EDT

I am sorry for your loss and offer my condolences. May each of you be comforted by looking forward to the time when all causes of death, and the sorrow that follows, will be removed from the earth forever. (Rev. 21:4; Psalm 37:11,39) God always fulfills his promises. (Numbers 23:19) Sincerely, Mignon Clark

Photo shared: 4.jpg

Thu, 24 Sep 2015 10:47:12 EDT

Chris's sons

Condolence From John L. Lybarger

Thu, 24 Sep 2015 10:27:40 EDT

Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories to forever hold in your heart. Love John