Nicholas Edward Davidson was born in Escondido, California on January 10, 1989. The family soon moved north, behind the splendor of the Redwood Curtain, to Arcata, where Nicholas’s boundless curiosity and love for history set him apart from an early age. Nicholas was always proud to have grown up in small, historical Humboldt County surrounded by dairy farms, ocean landscaping, and the Redwood Forest. As a boy, he proudly wore old military uniforms to school — not for attention, but out of a deep fascination with the past and a connection to those who came before him. That passion shaped not only the life he lived, but also the legacy he leaves behind.

Nicholas answered the call to serve his country and became a proud U.S. Army soldier. Over nearly 17 years in uniform, he completed multiple tours in Afghanistan and Iraq, forging bonds that would last a lifetime and giving more of himself than most could ever imagine. He fought with extraordinary courage in battles that pushed him to his limits — one of which was later depicted in the film The Outpost, a stark reminder of the sacrifices he and his brothers-in-arms made. Though he carried unseen wounds alongside his medals, his devotion to his family, his friends, and his country never faltered.

Of all his roles, “Dad” was the one Nicholas treasured most. His four children — Natalia, Jeremiah, Isaiah, and Ezekiel — were his greatest pride and joy. He read with them, traveled with them, shared music with them, and filled their lives with laughter. To them, he wasn’t just their father- he was also a playful spirit whose humor brightened every room. Although his military service often presented barriers to being alongside his children, Nicholas always tried to make up for lost time by adventuring with them. Any activity imaginable was theirs for the taking — whether I was going to endless museums, getting lost beneath the Redwood canopy, visiting Sequoia Park Zoo, or hunting for sea creatures in the tide pools.

Nicholas was also a devoted uncle, a role he cherished. He delighted in cheering on his nieces and nephew, guiding them as a mentor and role model. He pushed both his children and his nieces and nephew to chase their dreams and strive to be their best selves. His influence will live on in their lives as they carry forward the lessons of perseverance, strength, and kindness he instilled in them.

His Catholic faith became an anchor in his adult life, offering comfort and direction when the world felt heavy. Nicholas clung tightly to his strong moral compass, striving to always do the right thing. He also took great pride in his Scottish heritage, often tracing his family tree and sharing with his children the importance of their roots. That lineage- grounded in strength and resilience — mirrored the way Nicholas lived: with dignity, loyalty, and honor.

Quietly steadfast, Nicholas came from humble beginnings and overcame more obstacles than most ever knew. Yet he lived with generosity, always willing to help others without hesitation. He believed deeply in the philosophy of community and lived with the conviction that people are stronger together. He embodied that belief by welcoming others with open arms and by creating spaces where everyone felt they belonged. Whether with family, friends, fellow veterans, or neighbors, Nicholas showed that community isn’t just where you live — it’s how you love and stand by one another.

For Nicholas, family extended beyond blood; he built a chosen family as well, embracing friends as brothers and sisters, loving them fiercely, and standing by them with steadfast loyalty. Those who knew Nicholas will remember his laugh, his kindness, his resilience, and the way he made everyone feel welcome. His story is one of love, sacrifice, and perseverance — one that will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to share life with him.

In honor of Nicholas’s life, and in reflection of the two roles he cherished most- that of soldier and father — the family asks that anyone wishing to honor his legacy consider donating to a charity of their choice that supports either children or veterans. Supporting the future of young people and caring for those who served was close to Nicholas’s heart, and giving in this way continues the work he valued most.

Nicholas’s ashes will be scattered in Humboldt County and a small candlelight memorial will be held at Tepona Point in Westhaven on Friday October 3, 2025 at 6:15 p.m.

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