On September 16th, 2021 Robert Lavon Nahikian JR, after years of declining health, was reunited with his wife of 55 years, Patricia Loveridge Nahikian, in heaven. Bob (to friends), Chief Nik (to Coasties), or Lavon (to family) was 84 at the time of his passing and had recently moved to Kingsland to be closer to his family. Born in Asheville, NC on March 15 ^th , 1937, he travelled around in his military career (USAF 1956-1965 and USCG 1965-1978) with most of his life spent in Florida. The mountains never lost their appeal to him and he thought of NC as his home.

Lavon was passionate about model railroading and had a very impressive collection of diecast model trucks and cars as well as trains. He had several published articles about his unique building techniques and had friends around the world that he corresponded with who shared his enthusiasm.  Bob was a true storyteller and loved nothing better than to share stories of his Coast Guard days or his years growing up in Asheville. These stories are preserved for his family in the form of books that he wrote over the years of his adventures. He also was quite the historian, especially when it came to military history. He enjoyed a good pun and shared these daily with his groups on the internet.

In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by a brother, Howard Nahikian. Lavon is survived by his two daughters; Lisa Aileen Yackel and husband, Scott and Deb Nahikian, his grandson, Kevin and wife Erin, great grandson, Max, his three sisters, Marta Hicks (Don), Marie Seymour (Gene), and Marcia Nelms (Gerald), as well as numerous nieces and nephews and grand nieces and nephews.  He often told people that he was the bridge that connected 7 generations as he knew his great grandparents and his great grandson.

Semper Paratus Chief Nik. You will be missed. Remembrances can be made to GHC Hospice ( https://ghchospice.com/donations/ ) or the Disabled Veterans Association ( https://secure.dav.org/site/Donation ).  A celebration of life will be held on March 12, 2022 in St. Marys, GA.  He will be interned per his wishes in the ash garden at Trinity Episcopal Church, Melrose, Florida alongside his wife as well as his beloved mountains and at sea.