Nicholas Isel

1998 - 2021

Nicholas Isel
March 19, 1998 - May 18, 2021
Azle, Texas - Nicholas Vernon Isel died unexpectedly May 18, 2021, at his home in Surfside, Texas. Born March 19, 1998 in Irving, Texas, Nick had a happy childhood filled with outdoor adventure, from the creek that bordered the family backyard to the Rocky Mountains and Texas Gulf Coast. He graduated from Azle Christian High School and received a welding certificate from Weatherford College.
Nick was an energetic soul, a real doer, always on the go, favoring activities where he could be in motion rather than seated. He loved animals and they loved him. Dogs followed him eager for his touch, while rabbits and cats were content to snuggle under his jacket or perch on his shoulders.
Nick thrived when spending time in the great outdoors. He was a keen observer of nature, sharing interesting observations enjoyed by companions. An avid and knowledgeable fisherman, Nick especially favored fishing with his brother Mitch for catfish and redfish as well as crabbing. He loved spending time at various lakes, the Brazos River, beaches, and San Luis Pass on the Gulf Coast. A talented chef, Nick enjoyed serving a well-prepared meal to family or friends, often featuring seafood he had caught.
Nick was a skilled welder and carpenter and was quite mechanically inclined, able to solve almost any mechanical problem even as a child. He was a Ford truck enthusiast; working on truck engines and welding custom accessories were favorite pastimes. In his employment, he was respected for a strong work ethic and known as a reliable, hard worker.
Nick fought courageously against the illness of addiction and won many battles, but an accidental overdose that followed two years of clean living took his life. He was fundamentally a great human being, and addiction did not change that. Friends and family describe him as someone with many positive traits; he was appreciated for his good humor and easy smile, fun to be with, kind and friendly to all, always generous and ready to lend a helping hand.
Nick is survived by mother Carolyn Key, brother Mitchell Isel, grandmother Patricia Key, aunts Kathy Key and Laura Key, uncles Paul Isel and Mark Aronszajn, many supportive friends, several cousins, and his faithful dog Buddy. He was preceded in death by father Jeffrey Isel and grandparents Terry and Vernon Pellow and Robert Key.
An open-air memorial service will be held at noon, Saturday June 5, at Hidden Gardens, 8229 Jacksboro Highway. Donations can be made in Nick's honor to the Inland or Coastal Fisheries Management Programs of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.