Nicholas George Valison Obituary (1969 - 2023)

Nicholas (Nick) Valison, was taken on Thursday, September 21, 2023 at the age of 53 as a result of an unexpected act of violence as he protected his neighborhood. One friend described this deed as his 'last great act.' Nick, a profoundly loving and devoted husband, father, son, and brother, is survived by his beloved wife of 29 years, Tanie, and his two daughters, Tessa (22) and Anna (15). He is also survived by his parents, George and Patricia Valison of Wenatchee, and his sister Anna Marie (Scott) Clayhold of Bellevue. In addition, he leaves behind a cherished extended family, including in-laws, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews, all of whom will dearly miss his generous heart and infectious smile. Nick was born on October 17, 1969, in Seattle, WA, and spent his formative years in Kirkland, WA. He received his education in Kirkland and Snohomish, ultimately graduating from Snohomish High School in 1987. He went on to attend the University of Idaho, where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer Engineering in 1992. Nick's career took off at Hewlett Packard, where he remained a dedicated team member for 25 years. He cultivated enduring friendships during this time, many of which lasted for over three decades, often meeting colleagues for regular lunches. At the time of his untimely passing, Nick was working for Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) and had a deep affection for the opportunity and the close-knit colleagues who had become his friends. An enthusiastic outdoorsman, Nick found solace in nature and dedicated a part of each day to the great outdoors. He was passionate about mountain biking, hiking, and even simple walks with his Malamute, Nanuk, which contributed to his daily step goal of 10,000 or more. His energy and positivity were truly unparalleled, touching the lives of all who knew him. Whether through his warm smile and friendly wave during neighborhood walks, casual visits to the local bar, shared mountain biking adventures, work in the IT industry, or community involvement, Nick connected with people and built lasting friendships. Despite his remarkable intelligence, Nick remained humble, declaring, "I work to live, not live to work." While excelling in his professional pursuits, he consistently placed relationships and people above material possessions. He understood the true value of life and ensured it was well-lived. In 2012, after 18 years in Renton, Nick relocated his family to Ravensdale and embraced a tranquil rural lifestyle. He took great pleasure in maintaining his property, connecting with his neighbors, engaging in dirt bike adventures with his daughters, raising chickens for daily fresh eggs, and learning how to care for donkeys and other animals that joined their "farm," fulfilling his wife's dream. Together, they turned that dream into a reality. A private Celebration of Nick's Life was held on Saturday, October 28, 2023 at Taylor Mountain Ranch in Maple Valley, Washington. In lieu of flowers, we kindly request that you consider making a donation to the Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance, an organization Nick had been a devoted member of for many years and passionately supported. "All you have to do is find one thing in common with a person, no matter how small, and that is what you can focus on with them to develop a relationship."