Nicholas Rowan Jordan

Jan. 22, 2007 -  June 4 , 2017

Some beautiful souls among us possess a light and presence that defy description. Nicholas Rowan Jordan was such a soul. He danced to his own tunes, celebrated each day as if he'd just been born, and embraced all life offered with uncontained enthusiasm.

One of Nicky's special gifts was his delight in human interaction. That meant striking up conversations with strangers anywhere and everywhere. His opening line was usually a compliment, catching people off-guard momentarily before they smiled back. This seemed to be Nicky's mission in life: to elicit smiles, and to make people feel as though he was talking only to them. His love and acceptance for everyone left an impression on all those he met and reached some who have only heard about him. He could gather a crowd effortlessly.

Nicky was a shameless flirt, even from his hospital bed, telling every woman and girl that she was beautiful. He loved kisses, pinky promises and the occasional eyebrow wiggle. His world was filled with glitter, rainbows and unicorns, literally, and he was a fan of My Little Pony even as a boy of 10. Music was his greatest love: If it had a beat, Nicky would dance to it. He loved Texas, where he was born, reveling in its hot weather and big personalities and once wearing cowboy boots for two years straight. He also loved Hawaii, whose serenity and beauty seemed to feed his spirit.

Nicky found joy in all things, whether a trip to McDonald's or a day at school. Every day was a party, every meal a feast. He almost always found a way to giggle and be happy. When the family moved and he had no friends, he marched out the front door and announced that he was going to find some — and he did! He saw only the positive experiences to be had, and rarely complained. As his health deteriorated, Nicky never asked why, never asked if he would get better. He took all the needles, medicine and indignities in stride, often thanking the medical staff.

Despite the health issues he faced from birth, Nicky had a remarkable ability to cope and adapt, often surprising doctors with his resilience. He fought mightily until the end. Unfortunately, his opponent, a rare brain cancer, was just as fierce.

We can all take lessons from Nicky, if our hearts are open: Small actions have profound effects, smiles are contagious, and optimism nurtures courage. Love conquers fear, and one can travel far on joy and generosity.

It's a loss for the world that Nicky will never grow up, fall in love, have children of his own, and do all the things others will have the privilege of experiencing. His family is cheated out of watching a remarkable child grow into manhood, and seeing what exceptional things he would have accomplished. We should think not that he left us, but of what he left FOR us: limitless love and a profound appreciation for life and all its wonders. We will miss you every day, Nicky, but we promise to honor you and the beautiful light you gave us.

A celebration of life will be held on a date to be announced.