NIKOLAJS MEZINS Feb. 11, 1936 – Jan. 24, 2022

Nikolajs Mezins passed away on Monday, January 24, 2022, at the age of 85 from heart failure after battling cancer for 2.5 years.

He is survived by his daughter Joanne Baca, son-in-law Martin Baca, and long-time friend and ex-wife Patricia Elliott with whom he traveled much of the world.

Nick was born in Riga, Latvia on Feb. 11, 1936, and emigrated to the United States in his teenage years. He attended New York City College graduating in 1959 with a degree in Electrical Engineering and in 1970 from the University of Pittsburgh with a master’s degree in Industrial Engineering.

Nick joined the Army ROTC program in college going on to enlist in the Army and serving overseas in Germany where he met his future wife Patricia. Nick received 2 Bronze Star Medals (Vietnam), 1 Army Commendation Medal, and a Meritorious Service Medal retiring with the rank of Lt. Colonel. Nick was a member of the American Legion for 50 years during which time he forged many lifelong friendships. Nick worked at LANL for 19 years as an Electrical Engineer, retiring in 1993.

Nick was a kind, thoughtful and generous man and will be greatly missed.

Nick requested that donations be made to the American Legion Children and Youth Fund instead of flowers.

Mr. Mezins is in the gentle care of Rivera Family Funeral Home of Los Alamos and Española. Please leave stories, pictures, and messages for the family at www.river familyfuneralhome.com.