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John NITKA Obituary
Memories and Condolences
for John NITKA
Sherry Whitfield
August 28, 2022
Thinking of you and your family today, John.
Love and prayers.
Lillian Lares Avenente
September 15, 2017
My condolences to the Nitka Family. I was saddened to hear of Mr. Nitka's passing. I have long wanted to thank him for helping me find my way when I was a young troubled teen. It has been almost 30 years since I last saw him after leaving THS, but not a day has passed that I don't think of the caring guidance he offered that changed the course of my life. RIP Mr. Nitka and THANK YOU!!!
Lisa Mirek
September 13, 2017
I have such fond memories of Mr. Nitka. He kept us laughing and challenged. RIP. Class of 81.
Pete Polley
September 12, 2017
Though I didn't get to see you for many years, I'm sure your warm laugh and kind nature will be missed by many along with me.
Miguel [Mick] Schmitz
September 11, 2017
My condolences to the Nitka family for their loss. Mr. Nitka's intensity and animation was not only inspirational on the field but also in the classroom, and this resonates with me to this day. He will be missed.
Kalvin (Bruce) Smith
September 10, 2017
I enjoyed my eight years as John's colleague at Palo Verde. We had many great discussions about history and teaching. We both were bitten by the collecting bug (my interest is in records). He will be missed by many.
Jim Felty
September 10, 2017
Loved him as a teacher and coach back in the 80's. He was a great person and will be missed.
September 7, 2017
so sorry for your loss...he made my football experience a happy time for me and others..remember he explained the dangers of driving in a
way i still recall..he was and is a good man
Leyva-O'Heir Family
September 7, 2017
Mr Nitka was a teacher to my daughters Erica and Elizabeth Leyva at Palo Verde HS. But we first met him as Erica's softball coach. He was an amazing man and coach. He will be dearly missed.
Arthur Higven 79
September 6, 2017
Larry, our deepest condolences to you and your family. John was the best teacher I had @ salpointe, and there were some good ones, he told some great real life stories and made you think and emphasized the use of common sense. He helped me immensely, i attended class and stayed off Dean Reilly's radar senior year
Mary Ann & Mike Ulichny
September 6, 2017
John coached our son, MIke, at PV and a nicer person you could not find. The guys loved him. The world is less without him in it but he touched so many with his kindness. Ours heart are with his family and all those who will miss him.
1993 (he's in the top back right corner)
September 6, 2017
I'm Very sorry to hear about the passing of Coach Nitka. We met my freshman year at Palo Verde and he made quite an impression on our team and me (Undefeated). He emphasized that we were not little boys anymore, it was time to start growing up and take responsibility for ourselves. "Mommy isn't here to do it for you anymore!" ... He taught many valuable life lessons while coaching,..but instead, I'll share a funny story: I got my chin opened up pretty bad playing Nogales HS, and after the game ended we always ate at McD's because of the long ride back to town. I said coach what do I do about this, showing him my wound? He said come here, and we walked to the register,.."You have any tape back there, I don't care what kind, yeah that will work.." He took a single piece of scotch tape and sqeezed my chin back together, that ot to hold it!" I said,that's it? I'm fine?" He said, "Oh No... you need to go to the hospital as soon as we get back!" He did his little smile, that was to say, Don't freak out, you'll be fine
He had a way to bring calmness to our high-anxiety, high-energy lives. He was a great man, and I'm proud to have played for him.
To his family, I'm sorry for your loss, he was a really great guy! Thank you for sharing him with all of us. My thoughts and prayers for you through this tough time
Sincerly,
John Mooney
Palo Verde Class of 93' Titan Pride
#72 RG, DE
Ashantae Miles
September 6, 2017
My condolences to the Nitka family. He was my teacher and coach at Palo Verde High School. He was always a breath of fresh air and would tell you how it is with love. John Anthony Nitka will be sadly missed.
September 6, 2017
My husband, "gilbert Islas" was a big fan of Mr. Nitka. He shared his hobby of building models and actually looked foward to seeing John at all the toy fairs. This is where I Met Mr. Nitka who was a very kind man. Mr. Nitka also coached my boys at PaloVerde. He will be missed by many.
Kathy Islas
September 6, 2017
John Nitka Family, our thoughts and prayers during these difficult times. May you fine comfort knowing that others share your loss.
Katie Breck Calhoun
September 6, 2017
This is very sad news. Mr. Nitka was amazing and he was one of my favorites at Salpointe, '84. He made us laugh and and was very supportive inside and outside the classroom.
I didn't play football but he coached me in Racquetball for several years after I had graduated. During our practice sessions he would insist that I practice in the courts with the glass walls, my weakness. He was always encouraging and pushing the comfort boundaries, aiming for success.
RIP Mr. Nitka.
Michele Brubaker
September 6, 2017
John Nitka not only inspired students, he also inspired his colleagues at Salpointe and beyond! Your great heart, laughter, warmth and caring kept our focus on the students even though all else was sooming around us. High school was so much fun with John Nitka around--even though we were all on the faculty! We love you, John.
Maria '84
September 6, 2017
You will be missed Mr Nitka. Your humor and gentle nature light up our school and classes we took from you. My heartfelt condolences and sympathy for the Nitka Family.
Steve Armstrong
September 5, 2017
Mr. Nitka's class was one of my better Senior Year memories, and he was one of my favorite teachers over my time in school. It goes without saying that you will be missed, and I will not forget the good times and wacky conversations from your class.
Mariano Anguiano III
September 5, 2017
You made class fun!! You will be missed.
Mariano Anguiano III
SCHS 1982
September 5, 2017
Many thoughts and prayers to the Nitka family. During my time spent at Salpointe, I am not sure that I ever saw Mr. Nitka without a smile on his face. He was one of the kindest teachers that I knew. His love of life and for all of us kids at Salpointe is most memorable to all of us who knew him. Rest in peace Mr. Nitka.
Erica Addison
September 5, 2017
So sorry to hear of Mr. Nitka's passing. He was a loved member of the Catalina family and I can say that he was an important part of touching many children's lives. May he rest in peace.
Lisa Mach
September 5, 2017
Mr. Nitka was such an inspiration and great teacher. I'm so sorry for your loss. Lisa Mach (Muzzy)
Mike Selk
September 5, 2017
Mr Nitka was a kind and dedicated teacher and coach that impacted my life and so many others. He had a big personality and a big heart! He will be missed by many and remembered fondly. Prayers for peace to his family.
Mark Hanna
September 5, 2017
John was a great help to me during my time as the college readiness counselor at Catalina High School. More importantly, he was loved by his students and helped give them the tools for success in their future careers and lives. He leaves a legacy of having impacted the lives of so many young people. Prayers and thoughts for his friends and family.
Salpointe Catholic High School
September 5, 2017
The Salpointe Catholic High School community extends deepest sympathy to the Nitka family. You are in our prayers at this difficult time.
Bob Lindberg
September 5, 2017
Sincere condolences to the entire Nitka family on the passing of John. Great guy, 'gentle giant.' Yesterday's Mass reading, 1 Thess 4: 13-18 is timely: "... you may not grieve like the rest, who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose, so too will God, through Jesus, bring with him those who have fallen asleep." May you find peace at this difficult time.
Tracy Dorsey
September 5, 2017
He was one of the most inspirational teachers I ever had, his passing is a loss for every student to come
Pietro Scarafiotti
September 4, 2017
My deepest sorrow to the family, John was not only an extraordinary man he was a great guy and he will be missed
Deborah Lycans
September 4, 2017
May you Rest in Peace John. We were friends in the early days at Palo Verde High School.
Amber Greth
September 4, 2017
My condolences to Mr. Nitka's family in this difficult time. Mr.Nitka was great teacher and one of my favorites during my time at Palo Verde. Thank you Mr. Nitka for your life lessons, wisdom, and always making us question things in the world around us. You will be greatly missed.
Rex Scott
September 4, 2017
It was a privilege to work alongside John at Catalina High School. He was someone our students loved and respected. John's colleagues could always count on him for wise advice and to help in keeping things light. As an example of the latter, click on this link and go to the 5:30 mark: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YHKfcS7R08I
Stephanie Friauf
September 4, 2017
Mr Nitka was the best teacher that ever taught. I appreciate e erything he did for me. He will make a great angel.
Sherry Whitfield
September 4, 2017
I'm so very sorry for your loss MaryAnn and Anna.
Words are not adequate, but this poem reminded me of him.
"That man is a success
Who has lived well, laughed often and loved much;
Who has gained the respect of intelligent men and the love of children;
Who has filled his niche and accomplished his task;
Who leaves the world better than he found it;
Who has never lacked appreciation of earth's beauty or failed to express it;
Who looked for the best in others and gave the best he had."
---Author Unknown
<3
Kayla Crane
September 4, 2017
Mr. Nitka was a great Govt. teacher while i was at Palo Verde. He actually made me want to go to class. He was funny and great person to be around. Rest in peace and may God watch over his family.
September 4, 2017
My favorite teacher at Salpointe.. Will always remember his kind caring and wonderful sense of humor. I was just talking to a staff member about him. He touched so many people. Now go touch others in heaven!
Monica Mendez Weil '83
SCHS
Joan (Kedra) Niesen
September 4, 2017
My thoughts and prayers are with the Nitka Family during this time. Mr. Nitka was an inspiration to me during my years at Salpointe. He always knew how to make his students smile when they were feeling down.
Joe Tyron
September 4, 2017
Condolences to the Nitka Family. John was a kind guy and caring teacher. I remember him well in 1984 at Salpointe. He will be missed by many.
Crystle Eason
September 4, 2017
I'm so saddened to hear this. Mr. Nitka was my government teacher my senior year at Palo Verde. Class of 2003. He was one of my favorite teachers and I'll never forget him. My heart goes out to his family and dear ones. May he rest in peace.
Emma Prinz
September 3, 2017
I had Mr. Nitka as my econ teacher my senior year at Catalina. He was a good man, always had a good laugh for us and made class enjoyable. You and your family are in our thoughts.
David Seymour
September 3, 2017
The Seymour family sends our deepest condolence to John and family. Our family knew the Nitkas family ever since we moved next store to them in 1969. John and family treated us as one of their own. Made us feel welcomed and loved. Us as kids had a very long and memorable childhood memories. God bless you Nitka family.
David Seymour.
Gail and Bob Vielledent
September 3, 2017
Dear MaryAnn and Anna ~ Our hearts go out to both of you, as Coach V and I were devastated to hear this sad news! John Nitka was such a family man and loved you both so much. All who knew him enjoyed being around him and his wonderful sense of humor. He will be missed by so many! God Bless you both and all the family with His comfort and peace. Our deepest sorrow and sympathy.
Amanda Hammond
September 3, 2017
I had Mr. Nitka for senior year at Palo Verde back in 2003. He was one of the best teachers I had there in my 4 years. He will be deeply missed. Prayers to his family and friends.
Ann McGarry Westmoreland
September 3, 2017
Mr. Nitka was one of my favorite teachers during my years as a Lancer. '84 I remember very few of my teachers, but will always have fond memories of his classes and his Blue Brothers act. He was always funny and made things fun, but he also taught us what was needed. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family during this time. He will be missed by many.
Cindy Schiesel
September 3, 2017
John's warmth and kindness touched so many of us that it is hard to think of him being gone. That wonderful, heartfelt and loving laugh still rings in my ears as a reminder of this wonderful man. I am so sorry for his loss, but know that his memory will always lighten the hearts of those who loved him and honored his being.
Carole Higuera-Fisher
September 3, 2017
I am profoundly sad for all of the family and the community. My heart aches for all of you.
kayla clark hanson
September 3, 2017
he was always a bright spot in my otherwise glum senior year of high school my condolences to the family
Kris Hanford
September 3, 2017
My condolences to the Nitka family. When John came for dental visits, I always knew I was going to hear a good joke! Maryann, you and Adrianna are in my prayers.
Kris from Dr. Bedoya's office
Brittney Patrick
September 3, 2017
Mr. Nitka was one of my favorite teachers senior year at Palo Verde. I always loved going to his classes. He kept us engaged, encouraged, and he believed in all of us. He wouldn't let anything bring us down. Definitely one of the best. I bragged about him all the time. He will definitely be missed. My deepest condolences to the entire family.
Alyssa
September 3, 2017
He was my econ teacher during my senior year of high school, loved him! He signed my yearbook and told me that I was a special young lady and to remember him when I became famous. Remeber him I will, thoughts with the family!
Julia Walton
September 3, 2017
I was in Mr. Nitka's American government class at Palo Verde (19 years ago). He was a great teacher and is fondly remembered - fun, interesting and engaging. Our condolences to his family; he will truly be missed.
Jamie Bishop
September 3, 2017
So sad. Rest In Peace.
Bernadette Tanner-Fiumano Class 75
September 3, 2017
Sending thoughts n prayers to family
Tony Scalone
September 3, 2017
Just learned of your passing, Coach! The greatest of my memories of my time at Salpointe include you. It didn't matter if it was in the classroom or on the football field, you taught me life lessons, the truest mark of an educator. It's my deepest regret I was unable to reconnect with you. It's my deepest desire we meet again.
To your family. I know you understand his value to all, especially you. Otherwise the pain you feel wouldn't exist. Hold your memories close and share them. Coach lives on through you. And his daughter is his living legacy. You will remain in my family's prayers. May the Lord hold you close, ease your sorrow and strengthen your faith. Know that he is waiting, waiting to spend eternity with you in all of Gods glory. Amen
Caitlyne Moak
September 3, 2017
Nitka was one of the only teachers who truly inspired me to find something I loved in life. He brought so much passion and hope into our young minds. He will be missed by so many. My prayers are with his friends and family.
Lacey Wilson
September 3, 2017
Mr. Nitka was the first history teacher who encouraged me to think beyond what the books told us. He was a fun teacher who challenged us to open our eyes. My heart goes out to friends and family. Mr. Nitka will be missed.
Diana Reckart Miles
September 3, 2017
My thoughts and prayers for the whole Nitka family
Rey Trinidad
September 3, 2017
This man is my hero ... there was never a time when we did not laugh and enjoy each others company while coaching at Tucson High. For that I will always Love him. Heaven is full of laughter with his presence now ... All Our Love to Mary Ann and family ... God Bless you all.
Tim Hanna
September 3, 2017
I will always remember Mr. Nitka for his patience, wit, and kindness. History and American Government were always my favorite subjects and Mr. Nitka was my favorite teacher throughout my high school experience he really was thorough and made learning fun. God Bless Sir, you will be missed but never forgotten.
Margie Cassidy
September 3, 2017
Go rest in His arms, your work is done here you wonderful man ❤. Thank you for your love and compassion and being such a wonderful mentor to so many .your kindness and love will always be remembered. We will miss you !
With much love, respect and sympathy from
The Cassidy family
Jesus Rodriguez
September 3, 2017
Wow! Totally in shock. I had Mr Nitka in high school for 3 years and I learned a lot. You know I never ditched his class not once. Always on time. He was my favorite teacher of all time. He's the reason why I love government and everything about it. My last year of high school he helped me so much and at the end made me feel so proud knowing I did it, I finally graduated. The next day after graduation I went to his class room and thanked him for everything. He was an inspiration to me and a part of my life with success. Such a great lost to me. He will truly be missed.
Jamie Grace
September 3, 2017
Mr Nitka was an amazing teacher and was fun to be around. He made my class at Palo Verde a little more bearable.
My condolences to his family.
September 3, 2017
Heaven is a much brighter place now that John has arrived. May peace be with your family.
Betsy Davis
Mary and Ken McCoy
September 3, 2017
Our deepest condolences to the entire Nitka clan. We know he will be missed.
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