It is quite hard to believe that it has been a year since Nik’s passing. With the current state of the world, it almost seems like 10 years have passed, and on some days, like he should be right here sharing a giggle with us now if I just turned around.
Nik passed away suddenly on July 10th, 2019 at the age of 35. He was our very good friend, colleague, and business partner. It has been a profound loss for his parents, for us, and so many people whose lives he touched. We established a scholarship in his name as a legacy that is managed by the exceptional folks at the BC Hospitality Foundation and we hope it will live on for many years to come. We recently awarded the scholarship for the first time to a wonderful candidate, Carter Chanin, who has just graduated from Ladysmith Secondary School. He is Indigenous and a member of the Skidegate Band in Haida Gwaii. Carter is enrolled in the Vancouver Island Universities Culinary Arts program for the fall and this money will mean a lot to his future success.
Nik loved mentoring both young chefs and floor staff, and his generosity and professionalism made a deep impression on his many friends and colleagues. Nik’s father shared this thought with us: “Carter reminds me of Nik, so passionate about pursuing his career in the culinary profession at a young age! Please send him our best wishes.” With this scholarship, Nik has provided the opportunity for Carter to be a mentored now by Chef Dino, something we know would have made him very happy.
We raise a glass of rosé in your honor today Nik…Salut!