Nicholas Riley McCluskey

June 2025: I think of Nick often, of missed opportunities & fun activities. It could be harrowing in the OR but he had a way of alleviating the tension & maintaining a good relationship with the surgical team. He planned for the inconsistencies & whatifs, never missing a beat. Outside of work or close to it, you might be surprised by his practical jokes (BTW they were well planned too). Need a friend, a ride going in the opposite direction, advice, BBQ advice, planning a trip, etc., just ask...

06/24/2024 I think of Nick not only as an invaluable spine rep in our OR but as a friend with diversified interests. He never gave up, whether in the OR or with his friends. And I miss most of his pranks (or unsuccessfully avoiding some of them). Wish you were here. Allen Nakagawa, UCSF Retiree

06/29/2022 Nick passed away the year I retired; was on vacation when I was notified. Think of him often-have a photo of him in my vaccine wallet, see it daily. Still can´t believe he´s gone having interacted with him so much in the OR & outside. Think of his family as well. Miss you Nick. AllenN

I know we are very late to post anything here but just heard about Nicks passing. How I remember the days that Mike was hitting balls to the boys in the front yard and kicking goals as well. All the boys challenged each other and Nick being the oldest was the one to beat. I am so sorry for your loss and was broken hearted to hear of this tragedy. My heart goes out to Deena, Mike, Tyler and Kelli.

Dear Deena,Mike,Taylor and Kelli:

We were heartbroken to hear about Nick. We were out of town or we would have been at his memorial. There are no words that can make this less painful but the memories and the love you had for each other and your family had together will live on in those memories. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Margo and Gary Peterson

Dear Mike, Deena, Taylor, and Kelli:

Words cannot express the sorrow we feel at the loss of your beloved son. Nick lived larger than life. He always had a twinkle in his eye, and he was such fun to be around. We loved to watch him play soccer because he played with extraordinary energy and conviction. Our lives were richer for having known him, and Alex especially will miss him greatly.
Tony and Donna Chursky

Dear Deena and family,
I am so sorry to hear about Nick's passing! My prayers are with all of you...

Nick,

It was truly an honor to have been your teammate. Your tenacity for success, no matter the obstacle is courageous. Your unwillingness to give up is inspirational. Your selfless actions in putting your customers & your teammates before yourself is admirable. You made your mark on this world with the utmost grit and grace.
I will always treasure the stories we shared in this fight on earth together. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten. Rest in peace, my friend.

Mike, Deena, Taylor and Kelli,
I was informed of Nick's tragic death by Brittany and Gavin. I remember good times with all the kids playing in the cul-de-sac, Nick competing in high school and club sports. I lived next to Teddy and Cindy when Teddy was his soccer coach. Teddy told me several times how he respected Nick. So very sorry for you all. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you.