In honor of Nick Germer: son, friend, and brother

Nick Germer … son, brother, friend, uncle, grandson and all around beautiful spirit, was taken too soon.  Nick was raised in a small town in central British Columbia, Canada, before moving down to Kent, Washington with his family when he was 11. As anyone from Canada, or the US that knew Nick would tell you, Nick was larger than life, and not just because of his 6’5 frame, or his size 16 feet!! He had an infectious smile and magnetism that attracted people and animals to him. Part of this could have been because wherever he went, Nick had a keen talent of being able to make friends and good times quickly. And it was not uncommon for Nick to bring home various friends and animals, because they needed a home, some love, and some kindness. Nicholas was a natural protector, always willing to stand up for those that could not whether they were friends, acquaintances, or furry in nature.  Nick enjoyed nature and spent whatever time he could involved in various outdoor activities. Nick loved to hike, swim, dirt bike, snowboard, bridge jump, really anything involving nature. It all brought him joy and a smile. Nick also had a favorite spot down by Cedar River where he and his friends (or acquaintances that would soon become friends) would often go to enjoy a fire and good times, to listen to the sound of the river, or just enjoy the peace and tranquility. Nick enjoyed this spot so much that he would often go there on his own as well because it seemed to bring him peace. Nick’s greatest love was his family, and for him home is where his heart was and will always be. Even at 24, he had no intentions to leave home because he felt so loved and cared for, and it allowed him to stay close to family. He was a great brother to his sisters and older brother, and was always there to provide a shoulder to cry on or a helping hand. And if all else failed, his laugh was enough to bring a smile to anyone’s face. In the early morning of June 19th, Nick’s love of life was cut short, when he was shot and killed at the very place that brought him so much joy, the Cedar River. Nick passed from this world to the next being able to hear the sounds of the river, the whistling of the wind through the trees, surrounded by the place that he loved, as his Uncle Matthew waited to welcome him home to Heaven. For those that would like to see a celebration / slideshow of Nick's life, please click the following link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-4Bn4YRNm_Rjh2xZm2v_ZWCkUcbujhFc/view This GoFundMe page is one small way for his family to pay tribute to and celebrate Nick’s life. They are asking for donations to a cause Nick believed passionately about, which was animals and their well being. Donations provided will be given to Rabbit Haven, and other local animal charities. Even in Heaven, Nick and his legacy will be a blessing to provide help to furry friends that need a home, some love, and some kindness. In addition, the family would also like to use this GoFundMe page as a way to raise money in support of a reward to find the people responsible for Nick’s passing, should answers not be found.  Other ways to help: For those that are not able to donate financially at this time, there are still other ways to help. We encourage everyone to share this GoFundMe page however you can (Social Media, email, text, etc). In addition, if you have fond memories of Nick you’d like to share, fun photos that you have of him, or if you would just like send your condolences, please feel free to post them here, on Nick’s Facebook page, or send them to his family. Anything is appreciated, in celebration of the magnanimous person that he was. The family appreciates all of those that have already sent their condolences, support, and love. While right now their hearts are hurting, they are very proud of the man that Nick was, the life that he lived, and the love that he showed to so many.