Richard Charles Nico

January 29, 1953 – July 12, 2021

Richard Charles Nico, also known as “Chard, Rick, Ricardo and Dad Dog” was born on January 29th, 1953 in Lansing, MI. Richard was the 3rd born of 14 children from the marriage of Vito & Joyce Nico. To attempt to capture Chard’s true “essence” would take at least a Trilogy of books! Chard lived a life full of many fascinating, enriching and humbling experiences. His greatest achievements if you were to ask him was as a devoted, loving Husband, Father, Brother and Friend. His true passion was his guitar, which he played so beautifully. Chard was also a great storyteller with a twinkle in his eyes and had a wicked sense of humor. He took great pride in and worked so very hard to take care of his family and always had an open door for his siblings to provide a safe refuge over the years. The outpouring of messages we have received from his classmates in Michigan truly reflect an amazing young man who simply “loved life”. All the messages have a common thread “Kindness” He was indeed a very kind and giving man of great courage and never put himself first, always making sure that his loved ones, friends, a stranger in need were taken care of to the best of his ability.

Chard was well known to the local community in Carmel, CA and was highly regarded as a kind and giving soul. As one dear friend said, “Richard had the rare ability to make you feel like you were the only person in the room and truly listened to your story”.

My darling husband, you are now free from all the debilitating pain and suffering that robbed you of so much life that you loved so dearly. You tried your very best to endure this for so long until you simply had to leave us. But WOW! You have left us all with so many beautiful memories and stories to share.

Richard was preceded in death by his father, Vito James Nico and his beloved Nan. He is survived by his wife, Donna Alexander Nico; his children, Ian A. Nico, Ricky Nico and Erika Marie Nico; granddaughter, Brittanni; grandson, River; his mother, Joyce Adair Nico; siblings, Jim, Tom, Bill, Laura, David, Tim, Joe, Vito, Amy, Missy, Jennifer, Joyce, John and so many dear friends, too many to list but not forgotten. He loved you all so very much. I would like to pay a special tribute and respect to all the Hospice of the Central Coast team that provided such wonderful compassionate care and to Dr. John Hausdorff, you truly went above and beyond providing us with so much support during our darkest time, thank you!

R.I.P My darling Chard

until we meet again