Nicolas Benjamin Duarte

There are only two kinds of problems in the world:
The ones you can solve, and the ones you can't.

There's no point in worrying about the ones you can solve...
And there's no point in worrying about the ones you can't!

Obituary

Nicolas Benjamin Duarte lived fully, loved fiercely, and left an indelible mark on the hearts of everyone lucky enough to cross his path. Gone in the flesh but not in the spirit, he leaves behind a world made significantly brighter, warmer, and a richer just by his generous heart. He was a beloved husband, father, son, and brother who treated life not as something to be passively observed, but as a grand, joyful space for connection, innovation, and authenticity. 

Nik was a rare synthesis— a clever analytical mind that loved solving problems, an entrepreneurial bent that loved figuring out people's needs and the expressive soul of an artist. He looked at the universe with deep curiosity and captured its beauty with a vibrant, creative spirit.

He was the bravest person many of us will ever know. His optimism wasn't a passive hope; it was an active force. He was never shy about what he believed, yet he was also never hesitant to bridge the distance between human beings. Where others might hesitate, Nicolas reached out. He introduced himself, he offered help, he engaged deeply, and he pulled people into his orbit with an infectious, loving energy. To be met by Nicolas was to be truly seen, fearlessly and lovingly.

He leaves behind a profound legacy in the family he adored, the friends he championed, and the countless lives he touched. He is deeply missed, but his untamed optimism and radiant spirit live on in all of us.

A celebration of life is being planned for July 9th, 2026.  Details to follow.

Donations in memoriam

If you are moved to gift flowers (or anything else) to honor and memorialize Nik, we'd ask that you please instead contribute a donation to Gab, Adrien, and Christopher's college funds.

Donations can be made at www.ugift529.com using the code V6L-563

We are so grateful for the heartfelt desire to show love as we remember his legacy, and genuinely believe this the most meaningful way to contribute to his most cherished vocation as father in addition to husband, friend, artist and engineer.

Gallery

Speaking to Nik's Memory

June 5, 2026

My friend Nik. Kind, funny, humble, joyous Nik. I will remember you during Lego builds, 3d prints, car charging, and speed spinning. Because to me, it wasn't just one special moment. It was all of the time spent and all of the nerdy, geeky conversations throughout the years. Being present throughout the ebbs and flows of life, even if it had to be done virtually. Nik, you were one of the best humans I've known. We were so blessed to have had you in our lives. You are loved and will truly be missed.

Haizle Williams

June 4, 2026

Nik had a way of making you feel like family, no matter how long you had been known to him.

Hours of laughter crammed into the frame of but a few moments.

Scours of pictures and candid moments of sharing in but a single selfie & smile.

Years of inside jokes in a chest splitting laugh.

He could do all this, and never break stride.

My fondest memory of Nik and myself is from a knitting retreat held in Nashville three years ago.
We had last seen each other in person in 2021, so this was a special day.
When I arrived, I waved excitedly at Jill and jumped for glee when Nik came running out for a bear hug.
Wearing heels in this moment, I was just a bit taller than he and was able to lift him off the ground.
Hearing his laughter go from joy to surprised is a sound I will replay in my mind every day.

We will miss you, to no end.
And we will love you just the same.

Tara Wurster

June 4, 2026

Nik was such an amazing person—always supportive and always there when someone needed him.

One of my favorite memories was a little mini-retreat we had after COVID. Nik and Jill opened their home to us for an evening of fun. Somehow the conversation turned to Star Wars, and Nik disappeared for a moment before returning with his lightsabers. The next thing I knew, we were in the backyard having an epic lightsaber battle. We had lots of laughter that evening.

It’s a memory that will always stay with me because it reminds me that sometimes it’s not the big moments that make the biggest impact. Sometimes it’s the unexpected, joyful moments that remind us life doesn’t always have to be so serious. Nik had a special knack for creating those moments.

I’ll always remember his kindness, his generosity, and the joy he brought to the people around him.

Ashley Meeks