Birth date: Dec 21, 1935 Death date: Feb 4, 2025
Nicholas Peter Dirkx, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 4, 2025, in California. Born on December 21, 1935, in Wisconsin, Nicholas lived a life full of love, laughter, and dedica Read Obituary
We noticed Nicholas walking in the park long before we got to know him. We would exchange a “good morning” or say hello to each other. Nickolas was always very engaging, pleasant and always had a smile on his face. We first approached him about his license plate frame, which said, he had not only served in the Navy, but he was a submariner. We chatted about his naval experiences, and then went on our way. As time passed, we always had pleasant conversations with Nicholas when we passed him at the park. Over time, we began developing a warm friendship with him. One day we saw Nicholas walking with an attractive woman. When he introduced her, we learned she was his daughter visiting him from Las Vegas.
When Nicholas was hospitalized, there was a great concern among the walkers at Lindo Lake who missed him. We saw Nickolas several times in the hospital and then later at the nursing home, but it seemed his life had changed dramatically. One time, we offered to pick him up and bring him down to the park in a wheelchair where he could sit and visit with his friends as they passed by, but the invitation was declined by someone who responded that he could not do it.
Now our dear friend Nicholas is gone; he had so many friends at Lindo Lake Park who miss him dearly. He added so much with his engaging personality and lively sense of humor; he was a treat to see when we were on our walks. He was a good man and brought a lot of pleasure to those who knew him. So, until we meet again on the other side, we will be thankful and appreciative for the time we shared with Nicholas Dirkx.
Steve & Glenda Hutson
We'll always remember you Nicholas. We met when starting walking during Covid at Lindo Lake Park. Almost every day both Tim and I would look for your car, with the "Silent Service" license plate and know to look for you. We could see you from afar with your red jacket or dressed in the summer shorts, and later with a walking stick, talking with others and enjoying their dogs.
Talking with you always lifted our spirits. We learned so much of your life. You treasured your kids and I had the pleasure of meeting your daughter-from AZ -if I remember correctly. You enjoyed spending time with your brother who lives here at the coast. I remember you talking about the fun times you shared.
We learned you spent 6 years on a submarine and had to sleep on the top bunk that had a vent that compromised your tiny space allowing you to only sleep on your side. I cringed when hearing that!
I remember you telling us you went on a month long cruise (or was it longer) with your wife all around the Panama Canal and what fun you had! You had such a positive attitude in life!
While sharing some stories you mentioned working at Weight Watchers. It had been a number of years since I had been at WW and the thought that we might have encountered each other. The thought tickled the back of my mind and when thinking about it, I remembered! What a small, small world!
You scared us a while back when you stopped walking but soon you were back getting your daily walk, asking about others, or my husband, always with a smile on your face and a light in your eyes.
I think it was in July 2023 when we heard you were in the hospital. It was during the same time Tim was having surgery. When checking in for Tim's surgery we inquired as to what room you were in but we were told you were not there. We were sorry we missed you but later we found out that Mary Ellen and Nancy (park people) visited you that same day. I'm so sorry that we were given wrong information and missed the opportunity to see you.
This last year or so we kept up with your welfare from other regular walkers at the park. We know you had been having trouble with your throat and swallowing and were hoping to see you at the park either walking or sitting on a bench.
What a rounded life and career you had with the service, teaching cooking, (I found that fascinating) Weight Watchers, and out of everything- the most important thing for you were your family and friends.
We will miss you Nicholas. Thank you always asking about myself and my husband. Thank you for your concerns and always lightening our day.
Our deepest condolences to your family and everyone who knew you.
Tim and Kathy Kajewski
I met Nicholas at Lindo Lake while walking. We always stopped and said a few words before we moved on. He inspired me to make sure I got my walk in. I noticed he wasn't coming anymore a while back and hoped for the best. Rest in Peace, Nicholas.
On one on my trips to visit Nicholas couple of years ago, we visited Joyce’ grave site and I took his photo there. Now, the old bodies will be close but their spiritual bodies shall be forever closer in Heaven.
Always enjoyed our visits! And, our walks around the lake there in Lakeside. Rest in Peace.
Always loved seeing your Great grandson play basketball 🏀
Heaven is lucky to have you and so are we ❤️🕊️️
I love you Grandpa . Through every life time . Thank you for being the bestest friend and support I could ask for. I miss hearing your voice already - Love Chantel
