NICHOLAS "NICK" MICHAEL VELAZQUEZ

The family of Ken and Christine Guenther carry the profound burden of sharing the news of their son's farewell. Nicholas Michael Velazquez, their beloved son, has transitioned from this world at 38. Nicholas departed this world in Douglas, Wyoming, on Wednesday, September 13th, 2023.  The loss is deeply felt, the grief immense, and our hearts heavy.

Nick, who first graced this world in the charming city of Pordenone, Italy, on Monday the 12th of November in 1984, proved from the start that his life story would be one for the books.

Raised under the expansive skies of Douglas, Wyoming, by his loving and ever-patient parents, Ken and Christine Guenther, Nick quickly became the center of attention as the second in a trio of boys. If there was mischief to be found, you could bet that quick-witted, fun-loving Nick was not far behind.

Nick’s irresistible magnetism was apparent from the get-go. Granted with the rare gift of transforming acquaintances into lifelong friends, he was an extraordinary people-magnet. A natural conversationalist and friend to all, Nick had an enviable knack for dissolving any notion of strangerhood. His television remote-like ability to 'click' with everyone he encountered left an indelible mark, turning chance meetings into meaningful bonds that spanned decades.

With a heart as wide as Wyoming's skies and a spirit speckled with a Mexican flair, Nick was a man whose personality radiated far beyond borders.  Nick, a proud 2004 graduate of Douglas High School, was fueled by an insatiable appetite for self-improvement that never waned over the years.  He was a force to be reckoned with on the wrestling mat, bringing glory to the Douglas Bearcats as a State High School Wrestling Champion.  The idea of 'giving up' did not exist in Nick's dictionary - this steadfast tenacity urged him to outdo himself as an athlete continually.

After high school, Nick furthered his educational pursuit at Casper College. Deeply inspired by his grandfather's dutiful service in the United States Army, he wanted to lead a life of similar courage and significance. Heeding this call of duty, Nick enlisted in the military on May 10th, 2005, humbly stepping into his grandfather’s shoes to preserve the legacy of service to his country.

In 2005, Nick enlisted in the Army with an 18X-ray contract in Denver, Colorado.  He then attended Infantry Basic and Advanced Individual Training at Fort Benning, Georgia. Upon graduation, he attended Airborne School before being assigned to the Special Warfare Center and School (SWCS). Upon selection and completion of the Special Forces Qualification Course (SFQC), he was bestowed the coveted “Green Beret” in June 2007. He was then assigned to the 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne) at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, as a Special Forces weapons Sergeant.  Nick served on SFODA 5422, 4th Battalion, 5th SFG(A), from 2007 until 2012, where he deployed twice to Iraq.  In 2013, Nick joined the National Guard, serving on SFODA 9134, 1st Battalion 19SFG(A), where he deployed to Thailand, Afghanistan, and Korea.

SFC Velazquez's military education includes the Special Forces Qualification Course, Special Operations Weapons Course, Advanced Leaders Course, Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape Course, Sniper Course, Special Operations Target Interdiction Course, Basic Leaders Course, Ranger School, Air Assault School, and the U.S. Army Static Line Airborne Course.

His awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal with V device for actions in combat, three Army Commendation Medals, two Army Good Conduct Medals, a National Defense Service Medal, Korea Service Defense Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Stars, Iraq Campaign Medal with two Campaign Stars, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, NATO Medal, Special Forces Tab, Combat Infantryman Badge, Air Assault Badge and Parachutist Badge.

Nick's cherished memory will continue to thrive in the hearts of those who loved him: His affectionate parents, Christine and Kenneth Guenther. His supportive brothers, Matthew Velazquez (Emily) and Jonathon Velazquez (Angel). And his devoted girlfriend, Crystal Carling. Many fond nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, godchildren, and close friends were blessed to know him.

Remembering him with love and nostalgia are the beloved family members who had journeyed before him: His doting grandparents, Bruce and Margaret Helms from Faith, South Dakota.  His caring uncle, Michael Helms, is also from Faith, South Dakota.  His loving aunt, Penelope Helms, is from Douglas, Wyoming.  His lively cousin, Chelsey Helms, is from Seattle, Washington.

As we close this chapter in the cherished memory book of Nicholas Michael Velazquez, let us take a moment to reflect on the vibrant life he led.  A life ignited by love, laughter, and service, full of irrepressible spirit and unwavering courage.  He was a beacon of resilience that shone brightly throughout his remarkable journey, whether it was in his personal life or during his selfless service to his country.  A beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend, Nick’s footprints are imprinted deeply on the hearts of those lucky enough to cross paths with him.  His love will live on in the hearts of all those he touched, forever reminding them of his contagious laughter, compassionate heart, and relentless strength.  As we bid farewell to our loving Nick, let us take comfort in knowing he lived a life of unwavering courage, shaping his name into a cherished legacy that will continue to inspire generations.  As we mourn his untimely departure, we also celebrate Nick, a true champion in the wrestling mat of life. Rest peacefully, Nick; your indomitable spirit will forever echo within our hearts. We love you and miss you dearly.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 19, 2023, from 4:00 P.M. to 9:30 P.M. at Gorman’s Funeral Home in Douglas, Wyoming. A Vigil for the Deceased will be held on Wednesday, September 20, 2023, starting at 7:00 P.M. at Saint James Catholic Church. Funeral liturgy will be held on Thursday, September 21, 2023, beginning at 10:00 A.M. at Saint James Catholic Church, 302 South Fifth Street, with Father Miguel Flores, CH (CPT) USAR as the Celebrant. A funeral procession will depart Saint James Catholic Church for full military graveside services beginning at 11:15 A.M. at Douglas Park Cemetery, 501 South Ninth Street. Post Funeral get-together to celebrate Nick at the local Samuel Mares American Legion Post #8, 101 South Sixth Street.

The funeral will be live streamed at https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/2385716965

Serving as pallbearers will be Ty Winstead, Brian Harless, Grayson Gordeoux, Richard Martinez, Tommie Colhart, and Lloyd Stanton.

Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Matthew Velazquez, Jonathon Velazquez, Bruce Bevers, Drew Walsh, Joe Benges, Tanner Burback, Bruce Winton, Clint Becker, Justin Seim, *Casey Ulich*, and *Grant Gerk*.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, New York 10306 would be appreciated by the family.

The Gorman Funeral Homes – Converse Chapel of Douglas, Wyoming is in charge of the arrangements.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.gormanfh.com

John 15:13

Greater love hath no man than this,

that a man lay down his life for his friends.

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