Nick "Nico" Panas

Nick Panas, a man of profound faith and tireless work ethic, passed away peacefully on March 22, 2026. Born February 6, 1934, in Bridgeport, Nebraska, to Greek immigrants Louis and Stella Panas, Nick was one of ten siblings raised on the rhythms of the Nebraska farmlands- Memories of driving John Deere tractors and working the fields from sunrise to sunset throughout his early life, remained some of his most cherished stories.

While attending Bridgeport High school, Nick found the love of his life Freea Mae. Their journey together was anchored by their faith; shortly after Nick joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, they were sealed for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake City Temple. Together, they built a loving family of six children, 19 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild all of whom he adored. Nick's devotion to the gospel was evident in his callings and his many years as a worker in the Jordan River Temple.

Nick's professional legacy was written in water. What began as working in the irrigation fields of Nebraska blossomed into a distinguished 34-year career with the federal government in the Geological Survey Department and the Bureau of Reclamation Department with periods of work in California and extensive travel throughout Utah. Even though he only had a high school diploma, his hard work and knowledge earned him a respected career with the federal government. After he retired from the federal government he went to work for the State of Utah. He later retired from the State of Utah as an Environmental Scientist. He knew the flow of every stream in Utah, spending decades measuring the lifeblood of the West. Alongside his career, he spent much of his life working part-time in local garden centers, building a deep knowledge of plants and trees that he took great pride in.

After years of living in different states, they made their home in Murray, Utah, where Nick earned a reputation as a "master gardener." He had a real gift for gardening and took pride in his yard, always happy to share his knowledge as a tree expert at local nursery. When he was not gardening, he devoted himself to genealogy, a passion deeply rooted in his parents' Greek immigrant heritage. In his final years at Olympus Ranch, he treasured time with friends and family, delighting in visits and sharing stories from his younger days.

Nick was preceded in death by his beloved Freea; his parents; all nine of his siblings; his son, Russell; son-in-law, Dennis Reynolds; and three grandchildren, Jay, Kristi, and Hannahlyn.

He is survived by his children, Mike (Jennifer), David, Jenny, Sheri, and Karen (Chris); Brandon,19 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. His legacy of growth, hard work, and family devotion remains rooted in the hearts of all who knew him.

The family of Nick would like to express their gratitude to Olympus Ranch, IHC Home Health and Ability Hospice for the compassionate care and support they provided.

Services will be held at the LDS Revere Chapel located at 981 East Revere Circle, Murray Ut on April, 3rd at 11am.

God Be With Us Till We Meet Again