Nikolas Jason Heynes (14 Apr 1970 - 5 Jul 2019)

In loving memory of Nik Heynes who sadly passed away on 5th July 2019.

Nik was a larger than life character, with a smile that could brighten any room. He loved to banter with people and always made a connection - whether close friends and family, or the waitress at dinner, he always made them feel the spotlight of his attention - asking about them, making them feel included, sharing a joke. 'Nik-names' were a popular habit - everyone got one, sometimes several and even those who weren't keen couldn't resist accepting at least a shortening or abbreviation from the guy with the 100-watt grin.

His own name frequently being swapped out for another, he was known as Fred to his family, Dipsey to his rugby pals and several other things to those in his closest circle, Tigger being a favourite, where others aren't repeatable in polite company!

Having grown up in Suffolk, he loved the countryside, and especially the coast, and despite moving to the more land-locked Nottingham in the mid-90's he continued to visit the seaside as his favourite day out. He could never resist getting his feet wet, even going for a dip if it was warm enough (i.e. if the sun was out) and many of his most treasured holidays were spent in places where he could enjoy the beach, both at home and abroad, though especially with his beloved dogs, Treacle and Lottie - his girls. His exploration of the countryside continued when away in Betsey Bus, his cherished VW Camper - he loved the idea of being free to roam, especially if it meant he could barbecue every night!

The outdoors played a huge part in his home life too, where a love of gardening, always attributed to his mother's green fingers, led to many hours propagating, planting and growing - at one point leading to a large allotment where he spent happy times with a cold cider or two whilst tending to a crop of fruit and veg he'd then take home to cook and preserve. Cooking was perhaps the driving passion behind his veg growing, never happier than when he could turn something he'd grown himself into a meal for those he loved.

And when it came to those he loved, there was no contest - whilst he didn't always enjoy the time spent walking in rain, wind, sleet and snow, being with the dogs was often the highlight of his daily routine, and when possible, he made the most of their time together, chasing and running with them and generally playing the fool for their entertainment. Treacle was his frequent undoing - the apple of his eye from the moment he first saw the small puppy, he could never refuse her when she pawed at his foot, begging to play - many evenings were 'lost' while he chased her round the kitchen centre isle, teasing her with the coveted 'squeaker'. Lottie was equally loved, joining the family at 3.5 years old, she hadn't had a happy time of it, and he was always moved by how much she'd adapted to her new life and seemed to love being with him.

Work was a different scene - intelligent and bright, Nik's early days as a mechanic working for his Dad soon gave way to a role in IT. Starting at the bottom and working his way up, Nik's talent for delivery didn't go unnoticed, his tenacity and perseverance in the face of a challenge often winning out where others lacked the drive and motivation. Moving through a number of companies, his time at Babergh District Council, Sysao, Experian, and lastly Barclaycard are the ones that always stood out in his story-telling. His lovable nature made him someone people wanted to work with, his ability to make everyone on the team feel valued a real asset - many of his closest friends started out as colleagues. He was always proud of his work and the teams that he built, the greatest frustrations being when there were blockers to progress that he couldn't resolve himself.

In more recent times, Nik's focus shifted to his home life, where he enjoyed frequent weekends away and the delights of fine dining restaurants across the country. When not out and about, he could often be found cooking up a storm - with no less than 8 barbecues and 4 freezers, he could easily have fed the 5,000, though probably with soup and salad rather than loaves and fishes! He often spoke of a move to the country, where he envisaged owning enough land to be self-sufficient, growing his own veg, raising his own animals and maybe earning a few bob with a tree-house to rent out.

He will be greatly missed by all that knew him, a light that burned so brightly, snuffed out far too soon.

Notes for the funeral:
While Nik always looked dapper in a formal suit, he much preferred to show his flair for style with a shirt and jacket over jeans. Please wear what makes you feel comfortable but smart, and perhaps include a nod to Nik’s favourite colours which were purple, red, pink, blue and copper.
We also ask that you support our chosen charity, Mind, rather than send flowers, thank you x