John Nichols

I first learned of John Nichols on a trip through Taos in mid 70s. Bought a copy of The Last Beautiful Days of Autumn, then If Mountains Die. The Milagro trilogy followed and over time I bought all of his books ending with I Got Mine. Over the years I have visited Taos regularly enough that it felt like a home away from home. Once a merchant gave me his phone number and I called on the off chance he would answer. I got his machine and left a message, who I was and where I lived. He wrote back and invited me to have a beer when next in town. Alas, our drink meet was not to happen. On one of my trips he was to speak at a restaurant, closed for the event. He did not show. Many of those present seemed not so disappointed as me saying he likely was immersed in a book he was working on. For so many years I have lived with a small cloud of anticipation floating in the back of my mind waiting for the appearance of his next book. Over time I have learned that there are some things in life that you don´t need but want almost as much. John Nichol´s books were that for me. How fitting that he passed just after Thanksgiving. I will miss his humor and his particular way of looking at the world.

Tom, Austin TX February 22, 2024

The apple fell not far from the tree. Professor David Nichols introduced to me to his son in 1978. Two of the nicest people I ever met. John, thanks for recommending that I move to northern New Mexico. Glad I took your advice to move to a place different from the rest of the U.S. Hope to meet you again. Love and peace to your family

Frank Demolli

My first memory of John was in The Brodsky Bookstore in Taos...of course. We were both Hamilton College graduates. In a typically strange and amusing moment, it turned out that the old rabble rouser had the fonder memories of our fair alma mater. He wasn't much amused to hear 'The Buffers' line about Al Ham: "Our college name is borrowed, from a man who never lent; unless he had assurance of a modest 10 perCENNNNNT". But he liked that I sang in the choir and studied Music and English. And by example he reminded me that I probably learned more about writing in 4 years at Hamilton than I have in the 44 years since. Always hilarious and passionate, heroic and human. I miss him already.

Prayers for the Nichols family, May God be with you to help you through this difficult time of your loss.

John was a true original. He lived life with so much heart and energy. I am grateful to have called him a friend. He had many friends and he himself was a good friend. What a talent! Blessings to you, John, on your magical
journey.

God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

I was eager to see the movie, the milagro beanfield war when it came out. My favorite part was the little old lady that threw rocks at people. She reminded me so much of my tia Rita Martinez from Monte Vista, Colorado. Being a native Coloradoan, I could relate to the customs and culture of that movie. I give thanks to John Nichols for his movie, it was a real enjo