ALBANY – Nicholas “Nick” Birchak, 27, passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, August 24, 2011 due to complications from Epilepsy. Nick was born in Grand Junction, Colorado and spent his lifetime spreading kindness, good will, and optimism in spite of his ongoing battles with epilepsy and visual impairments. Nick was a 2002 graduate of Shaker High School where he was Captain of the wrestling team and named “Bison of the Year.” He was also a world record holder, and world champion in powerlifting. Nick earned a Bachelors and a Masters degree from The College of Saint Rose where he was a leader in student activities and named “Programmer of the Year.” He also represented St. Rose in the collegiate weightlifting championships where he placed fourth in the nation in Olympic style weightlifting. For those who knew Nick, he lived a life of no regrets and had an unparalleled passion for possibilities. His spirit of generosity was also recognized as he was given awards from the NY Governor’s office and the Attorney General, including the Triple C award for Commitment, Character, and Courage. Nick was a lover of life and a gifted photographer, ablindperspective.com. He also had many families. He deeply loved his St. Rose family, his dance family, and his Apple family. As a talented Lindy Hop swing dancer, Nick DJ’d, taught dance lessons, and placed third in the Beantown swing dance competition. He lived to be with his fellow dancers. Nick was a member of the Apple family as a specialist in disabilities. He was happiest when he was assisting others who had disabilities and he never missed an opportunity to educate others about epilepsy. Nick’s positive energy and inspiration was a gift to every life he touched. He will be missed greatly by his parents, Steve and Laura (Annie), his brother Brandon, his grandparents, extended family, and many friends.
Thursday, September 1, at 3:00 there will be a memorial service celebrating his extraordinary life. It will be held in Saint Joseph Hall, on the campus of The College of Saint Rose in Albany. Memorial contributions can be made to the Epilepsy Foundation of Northeast New York for scholarships in his name http://old.epilepsyfoundation.org/local/efneny/ . Arrangements have been entrusted to the Hans Funeral Home. To leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com .
View/print Nick’s Memorial Card.
Teresa Brown
Laura and Family,
I am deeply saddened by your extreme loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers. What an extraordinary young man you have raised. I am sure you are so proud of him. All my love to you at this time. Teresa
Daniel Mazz
This news of Nick’s passing is difficult to swallow to say the least. He is an inspiration of never taking life for granted and always pushing life to the limits. I became close to Nick by working at Apple Computers and am deeply hurt that I won’t be able to attend his funeral as I have moved out of the country. I wish the Birchak family to be proud of the wonderful boy they had helped become an amazing man. Nick was thirsty for knowledge, improving his life, and taking any opportunity that was available to push his life forward. I feel honored to have known Mr. Birchak and will use his ideals as an inspiration for my life.
Colleen Chestnut
Annie,Steve & Brandon- I am so sorry for your loss. I have always been impressed with Nick and his positive atitude. He accomplished so much in his life. He is an inpiration for all young people with or without handicaps. My heart is heavy with sadness but there is still a smile when I picture Nick. His joy for life was so amazing.
Mark,Diana,Joan,Kevin&Shannon's Family
Nick touched our hearts from the first time that we met him. His smile was contagious. He was so excited about trying new things and exploring the area. My family sends you love and support at this time. You raised a wonderful child who brought joy to alot of people. He left you a beautiful treasure of art to remember him by. Even though his time on earth was short he lived life as full as he could thanks to you. We are all blessed to have had him in our lives.
Justin
Nick was always an inspiration to those around him.
Ayse Gunduz
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Birchak,
I do not have the words to describe how saddened I am. I had the pleasure of meeting you at the Albany Med Epilepsy Monitoring Unit after Nick’s grid implantation surgery. I am one of the neurology researchers that worked with Nick while he was staying in the hospital. He was so giving and thoughtful of others who will benefit from our studies. We are truly grateful for all his efforts and contributions. We will continue to work very hard on epileptic research.
As a matter of fact, I first knew Nick through swing dancing, and always looked forward to dancing with him. I am very lucky to have been blessed with the chance of meeting him. He is one of the best human beings that I know and I will try every day of my life to be a more caring, generous, and joyful person like Nick.
My sincere condolences,
Ayse
Hank Eberhardt
Our deepest condolences. His presence will be missed by our family.
Kevin McLoughlin
Nick’s family and close friends – I cannot begin to fathom your feelings at this tragic and untimely loss. I didn’t know Nick well, but always admired his obvious spirit at the dances we attended. It was great to see him pursue and achieve his potential as a dancer and become an essential part of the local dance community. I saw him bring joy to many people there and this probably comes as no surprise to you. Though his passing leaves an irreplaceable void, his memory will and spirit will live on there as in your hearts through the many people he touched and inspired as a dancer, deejay, and teacher.
Scott Maloney
To the family of Nicholas J. Birchak
My name is Scott Maloney. I worked As a Security Officer for The College of Saint Rose for many years. Nicholas was one of the very few students I allowed myself to get close to. He and I spent many, many conversations together. Although I have left the College, my memories of Nick were nothing short of fantastic. He loved life and NEVER let anything stand in his way. I am very saddened for his untimely passing. My heart goes out to everyone.
Sincerely, Scott T. Maloney
Christopher Bishop
When I first met Nick through the Apple store, I could tell he was a special gift to this world. His outlook on life was one of optimism and joy. To hear of his sudden death was a terrible sadness. And as we all struggle to mourn and move forward, I look back at all the good times we had together. I rejoice in his life and the fact that I knew him as well as the impact he had on all of our lives. And now, I smile, knowing that we now have a gentle and beautiful soul looking down over us each and every day.
Tracey Buyce
Nick was an amazing person, fun to be around and always positive. I took a class with him at St. Rose and we used to talk about our mutual love for photography. A few years later, I was fortunate enough to photograph with whole Birchak family. Nick joked he was excited to check out the metadata of each image to learn more about the photography process. This winter I ran into Nick at Apple and was so impressed by his passion to help others.
So saddened by this huge loss.
My love and deepest condolences to The Birchak Family.
Much love,
Tracey Buyce
Steve Shephard
Dear Steve, Annie and Brandon,
I was so saddened to read about Nick’s passing this morning. I can only imagine the shock and pain you must be feeling. Although I have not seen Nick in many years, I have a very fond memory of him walking the halls of Forts Ferry. I was not surprised to read about all his successes. He always was a special kid.
Steve
Holly Eberhardt
Dear Annie,Steve & Brandon, Although we can never feel the depth of your pain, we share in your deep sadness and loss. Nick touched our life with his optimism and ever positive attitude and always his great sense of humor. More importantly though is the profound way he touched our daughter Katherine’s life. Theirs was a friendship that is rarely seen. To have one really true friend in life is a more valuable treasure than gold, and Nick was that found treasure for Katherine. His touch will forever live on in all our lives He truely was a blessing to everyone who met him. Holly and Hank Hank Eberhardt (p.s. he was an awsome Scrabble player.)
Nancy and Conrad Stenglein
We’re so sorry for your loss of Nick. He wrestled our son Josha in high school and we always enjoyed his passion of life . Our thoughs and prayers are with your family at this sad time. The Stenglein family
Betsy and Terry Schalk
My husband and I recently took a class at the Apple store and Nick was assisting the instructor. He was so helpful and knowledgeable. It was obvious that he loved what he was doing. He made a lasting impression on us.
Betsy and Terry Schalk
Jeanne Myers and family
Annie and Steve,
Reading about Nick and his successes tells me so much about him, and also about what truly amazing parents you are. Nick was a beautiful young man with a very full life. He seemed to move through his life with grace and dignity; gifts he inherited through you. You are ever present in our thoughts as we send you love and support through this time.
Kevin M. McFerran
Dear Birchak Family,
I am saddened by the loss of your precious Nick. I am certain his characters and values will live on in each of us. I recognized that his enthusiasm and passion for life began and were fueled by his remarkable and endearing family. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Jim Gordon
Laura and Family,
I am very sorry for your loss. May you receive comfort and strength from family and friends during this time and always.
Sincerely,
Jim Gordon
Kate Winter
I just met Nick briefly at the Apple Store a few weeks ago, but he made such a powerful impression of joy and empowerment that I had to tell you. I bought my laptop and left the store but kept Nick’s energy with me. He was obviously a very special person who made a difference in this world!
Leo Taggart
Dear Steve and Annie,
“To the universe, belongs the dancer!” I truely loved Nick and our years together at Shaker High. I gave Nick a small section on my blackboard just under our daily rotation,.. to chalk out his words of wisdom. Short positive statements that were meant to encourage him and others. Statements of affirmation and forging ahead. Statements of overcoming!
Steve,..that stained plywood box that you made for Nick to push around, was truely sign of your love and committment to Nick, who pushed that weight around with a smile!! Annie,..it was a joy meeting you through Nick, whose daily victories certainly brought you great joy!! I have and will always treasure my moments in LRA with Nick, either assisting him or waiting for those precious moments just to chat. It’s so fitting to hear of his dance instruction, and general interest in dance. The freedom it offers and the chance to step over obstacles and challenges, will always be the way I remember your victorious son.
With love and deep admiration,
Leo Taggart (K-109)
Dan Woodfield
We were saddened to hear of Nick’s passing. As fans of high school wrestling, we watched in awe of his accomplishments and kind thoughts for all whom he encountered. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time. The Woodfield family. Patrick, Kevin, Erin, Ann, and Dan
Jeff McLane
Laura, Steve, and Family,
I’m very sorry to hear about your loss. Even though I only had brief contact with Nick he obviously was a very special individual who is a role model for others. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Stacey Karzenski
My thoughts are with you on learning of the tragic loss of Nick. Though I did not know him, I know your hearts are grieving and wanted to send you my condolences.
Jessica (Emery) McMullan
Dear Mr. & Mrs. Birchak & Brandon:
I was deeply saddened to read about Nick’s passing. Nick was in my 6th grade class at Forts Ferry School and it was a pleasure to be his teacher. He was always smiling. His life’s accomplishments are many (to think he could do the Lindy Hop!) and you should be very proud of him. No doubt they are not only a tribute to his character but also to the love and support he received from you, his family. I am so sorry for your loss but hopefully you will be comforted by the fact that Nick was a fine young man who lived with much gusto, surrounded by a loving family and, from I can read, someone who had a lot fun!
Cathy and Bill Bradke
Dear Annie, Steve, and Brandon,
There are no words to describe the depth of our sorrow that we feel for you all over the passing of Nick. He was such an incredible young man!! Always happy. We are so glad that we got to spend time with all of you at Stacy and Donny’s wedding. It was really fun watching Nick and Sean interact with each other and also watching Nick show us his stuff on the dance floor. Nick accomplished so much in his young life and enjoyed doing all of it…Kuddos to you for being such a loving and supportive family for him. We pray for all of you, that our Lord will comfort you and bring you peace, knowing that such a great kid is in the arms of God now. We are so incredibly soory for your loss!
Love, Cathy & Bill
Jack Killough
Dear Steve, Annie and Brandon,
When Sadie and Dillon shared your loss with me I felt my heart ache. I only knew this man child in his youth but he was challenged
more then most of us. Health and physical issues that would have
diminished most, were his daily bread. And he never left the table hungry. He accepted what was given him with strength, tenacity, spirit and a source of courage that few could fathom but all could
apprecitate, if not marvel.
I know the family waters in which he drank. It is the well of love in which he flourished. Annie, Steve and Brandon, you are the sources and the beneficiaries of Nick’s life. His joy is your joy, his successes are your successes and his challenges were your challenges. Just as all of you are the reasons that made Nick the son, the brother, the boy and the man so many loved and will miss forever.
Jack, Cathy, Josh, and Jason Molloy
Dear Steve, Annie, and Brandon,
We are so saddened to hear about Nick’s passing. We got to know all of you through the Shaker wrestling program….I still remember seeing Brandon & Nick wrestling on the sidelines like two little bear cubs while Steve was teaching the team….that ‘picture’ always brings a smile and happy thoughts. We will always remember Nick as a very thoughtful, courageous, positive and happy person. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
margaretmary reynolds
Dear Dr. Birchak and Family,
I remember your son when he came to our class last year to help teach Lifespan Development. He was full of enthusiasm and goodwill. We heard many stories of his accomplishments and, as a student, I feel very sad for your grief and loss. Please know that he, and you, have given so much to life. So much is beyond our control. I send my heartfelt support for your healing at this time. Nick was obviously a great fellow, the result of much love and support given to him by you and the wide circle of loving friends and family which you provided for him.
Sincerely,
MargaretMary Reynolds
David Burke
I am truly saddened to hear about the loss of Nick earlier this week. It was great to be able to call Nick a teammate on the Shaker wrestling team. Seeing his performance on and off the mat was always inspirational for me, as it clearly was for many others. He always carried himself with class whether or not the day ended in victory or defeat.
I still remember my first tournament, where Nick won the Most Outstanding Wrestler award up at Burnt Hills tournament and the joy that it brought him that day. I feel that whatever obstacles Nick came up against, he was always relentless in following his dreams, and had a determined passion for all that he endeavored in. Nick and Steve, you were both a tremendous help to me, especially during that first year, and that is something that I will always be grateful for.
Nick, you will be missed! My thoughts are with you and your family during these tough times.
Ken Torreggiani
Nick was one of the friendliest people I have ever met. He went out of his way for others, and always had a big smile on his face. He touched so many lives during his time at St. Rose. He will be missed.
Nick, I know you are singing O.A.R with your guitar in hand on that park bench in the sky.
Sara Lestage
Nick will be truly missed. He was one of the rare people in this world, always looking for the positive. His smile was infectious.
He became an instant friend, within the first week that I stepped foot on the Saint Rose campus.
Steve, Laura and Brandon – I am so sorry for your loss.
Perry Berkowitz
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Nick was a treasure in so many ways. He will be sorely missed but never ever forgotten.
Perry
Sandy Sands (Margo Lucero's friend)
Annie, Steve, and Brandon: The only consolation of this tragic loss is the fact that Nick lived more of life in his 27 years than many people do in 60 years. I only met Nick once when I attended the 60th Wedding Anniversary for Micky and John, and I was impressed with his humor and positive energy about his disability. The world is a whole lot better place because he was in it and his impact will live on forever. But also, I am so so sorry for your loss, your hearts must be broken. Be sad, cry, feel angry, miss him, but never feel guilty because you were great parents and a wonderful family to him, I say this based on stories I heard from Michelle and Margo….May you all feel peace at this time….
Karen and Mike
We met Nick recently at the Apple Store where we went to buy iPads. We were struck and impressed by his knowledge, enthusiasm, and upbeat personality. His attentiveness and patience showed us that he was a very special person. Please accept our deepest condolences for his passing.
Dan Henderson
Dear Birchak Family,
As a friend to both Nick and Brandon, it is with the greatest sadness that I heard the news of Nick’s passing. In twenty-seven years, he accomplished more and gave more love to more people than most men can manage in a lifetime. It has truly been an honor and a phenomenal privilege to have spent the time I did with Nick and my heart goes out to everyone whose life he touched.
May his powerful spirit continue to touch and change all of the people whom he held so dear and may you take comfort in the strength and joy he possessed and the wonderful life we were all a part of.
With deepest regards and sympathy,
Dan Henderson
Leo Totten
I awoke this morning to the news of Nick’s passing. What a heart break. It has been awhile since I have been fortunate enough to work with Nick on the Olympic weightlifting platform but have fond memories of the tenacity and courage of such a fine young man. For myself and all of our East Coast Gold Weightlifting Team, we extend our deepest condolences. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family in this very tough time.
Kelly Alfred and Family
Annie, Steve, and Brandon, Our hearts are just broken for all of you. You are all in our thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time. Nick always had such a great outlook on everything in his life. We were proud to know him and we will miss him so very much. Confections in Chocolate will not be the same without his beautiful spirit and smile. Kelly Alfred and family
Sheila Green
Laura,
It is so difficult to find the right words to express the sorrow that I felt when I read about your son’s death. After reading all of the messages I really wish I had met Nicholas. He sounded like an amazing young and I am sure his spirit will live on in the hearts of many.
Sheila Green
MPMS
lynn horn
Dear Annie, Steve and Brandon,
I am so deeply sorry for your loss. Nick was such a fabulous young man and will be missed by many. I always enjoyed his spirit and enthusiasm at Chocolate.
Nick has left a legacy behind; an inspiration to those with epilepsy and disabilities. I will always have him and you in my prayers. Let me know if I can help you in any way.
Lynn Horn
Faith M. Horton
My deepest sympathy’s go out to Nicks family. I was so shocked to hear.
I meet Nick in 2000 in my Freshmen year at Shaker in Mr. Twinam’s class room. We were cordial and friendly most of the year until I found out in February that my retina detached on my right eye and I had to have a cateract removed also. Nick talked to me & helped me so much to deal with it. I had another.2 surgeries shortly after & again Nick was so kind.
The following February in fact I had another 3 more surgeries– Nick was there. He understood like no one else what being nearly blind feels like. After everything he went thru he always smiled & was positive. I’ll always think of him kindly & miss his humour.
I felt deeply sad to hear of his passing. He was an amazing soul & I will miss him. Rest in Peace Nick.
-Faith & Linda Horton too.
Keith Nautel
Steve,Annie and Brandon,
My deepest condolenses! What can I say but I loved Nick like a son. I will miss all the time we spent on the lifting platform! I could not have asked for a nicer lifter to start my coaching career with. Nick was so fun to coach…because he always had a great attitude, he always helped out with everyone and above all else he was fun to be around..he would always say nice stuff about everyone. I have fond memories of our trip to The nationals where Nick earn a 4th place and our trip the following years to many Empire State Game Weightlifting finals. He loved playing poker and alway got a small friendly game going. I believe it was Nick who coined my Empire State Games nickname “Captain Keekee” To all the memories I have share with Nick I thank him Steve and Annie. Steve you have personally taught me so much about raising my kids..I did listen and unfortunately this is not a lesson I ever wanted…my deepest sympathy to you Steve, Annie and Brandon…I will miss your son, your brother and my good friend Nick Birchak. May he rest in peace and may I never forget the great times we shared!!!!!!!
John Darsinos
As part of the team who met and worked with Nicholas at The Albany Medical Epilepsy Montoring Unit ,so very sorry for your loss. It was always a pleasure to be around Nicholas.
Mark Fish
Dr. Birchak and family,
I am very sorry to read about your loss. I want to express my deepest sympathy to you and your family and condolences on behalf of the New York State Middle School Association.
Mark Fish
NYSMSA
Brother James Martino, FSC-La Salle School
My thoughts and prayers as you remember and celebrate a life lived that made our world a better place for so many.
Tom and Jackie Michaels , Melissa and Cory Berlin
Steve,Annie and Brandon our thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of great saddness. Nick was an outstanding person and he will be deeply missed. We will always remember Nick and may God bless him.
Greg Sherwood
Nick was my RA and suitemate during my sophomore year at St. Rose, and anyone who knew him can agree that there simply is nothing bad you could EVER say about him, even if you were trying really, really hard to find a flaw with him. He’s the most inspirational person I’ve ever met. This is just terrible, terrible news. I suppose the only condolence here is that there’s no doubt in my mind that Nick has taken the Gun Show to Heaven.
Assie L. Bishop
Dr. Birchak and Family:
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Assie L. Bishop
Epilepsy Board Member
Kim Jordan
Dear Dr. Birchak and Family
I just read of Nick’s passing and would like to offer my deepest condolences to your family. I was a student at the College of St. Rose and remember Dr. Birchak speaking of his family and mentioning some of Nick’s challenges, but always glowing with pride…and now, reading about him (I did not know him personally), I can see why! He seemed to have contributed much in his short time here, and apparently loved life and those around him…how wonderful. I am so sorry for your loss, and selfishly, ours too. Wishing you peace and love.
Valerie Dechene
Dear Birchak Family
I was so saddened to read of your son/brother’s passing. What a remarkable man you raised! I have heard Dr. Birchak speak and am not surprised that he had such an amazing son. I pray you will find comfort and support from family and friends at this most difficult time. Sincerely, Valerie Dechene
Marissa Thorburn
I met Nick at the Dance Flurry this past winter. I never actually got to know him, but I admired not only his dancing abilities, but his smile and personality as well. You could just tell how much he loved life. May he rest in peace. My deepest condolences to his family and friends.
Holly, Doug, Kolten & Kasey Tea
Laura, Birdie and Brandon;
We are truly heart broken for your loss of such a wonderful son, brother and incredible young man. May his beautiful and kind soul rest in peace. Our thoughts and love are with you.
Karen Tuinstra
Birdie, Annie, Brandon: Thinking of each of you as you go through this time of saying goodbye to Nick. How fortunate I was to meet when we all got together here in GJ. Know that you are loved and remember in prayer and thoughts! With Love, Karen
Laney Wooster
An email containing your tragic news was just forwarded to me by Karen Tuinstra this morning.
I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. It’s difficult to lose someone you love, especially when they are so young and have barely made their mark on the world. I haven’t seen your son Nick since he was a baby when we were next door neighbors in Rangley on Raven Street,; however, his obituary is testament that he grew to be a lovely young man who will surely be missed by many!
My deepest thoughts and prayers are with you.
Tracy Sommerville Hayes
Hey guys,
Saw that someone has posted Brandon’s obituary in Rangely. What a fine young man you have raised and I have no doubt your loss will be the loss of many. His smile in his picture is most definately infectious. You can see his overwhelming love for life just looking at this picture. May god comfort you and help your hearts to heal and remember what a tremendous young individual you had the pleasure of raising and loving for 27 years! Please know that thoughts and prayers are with you from all your Rangely acquitances. Love to you all….
Alicia Ortiz
As I’m helping to organize our 10 year high school reunion, I learned today of Nick’s passing. I am so regretful I didn’t know earlier, because I would have loved to provide some support to your family in person, last year. I had no idea Nick was such a talented dancer! We surely would’ve gotten along. After being barely acquaintances in junior high school, and rarely crossing paths in high school, Nick found me on facebook and sent me a friend request. I gladly accepted, but unfortunately, beyond that we did not keep in touch very much. I can see through photos that he was easily the life of the party, and spread so much joy through his life. May you all be filled with love and his memories. . . Endless love.
Erin Baxter
I will always remember Nick’s positive outlook on everything. Although we lost touch out of high school with the exception of Facebook friends, his spirit will remain with all of us who knew him. Deepest condolences to you and your family. Best wishes, Erin
Kevin March
This is truely sad to hear about a former classmate especially at still such a young age. I only knew and talked to him a little bit through highschool but from what I did know of Nick was that he was a nice and positive kid. My sincere condolences go out to his family.