John Robert Nix
March 17, 1945-March 17, 2024
Pleasanton, California

John Robert Nix, 79, of Pleasanton, CA passed away peacefully on his birthday, March 17th, 2024, while surrounded by family.  Some would say dying on his birthday (St. Patrick’s Day) gave voice to his Irish luck and signified the achievement of his purpose here on earth.

John is survived by his wife of 48 years, Joanne, his children, Tyler and Connor (Sarah), and his siblings, Vicki and Grover.  John took incredible pride in his family.  He was a supportive and loving husband and a generous and compassionate father.  John and Jo were world-traveling companions, where exploration and adventure always won out over rest and relaxation.  Tyler and Connor fondly remember his humor, gregarious nature, and self-confidence – all qualities they seek to embody.

Beyond being most well-known as a loving husband, brother, and father, his role as a teacher best defined and gave purpose to his life – a role that he often referred to as the best job in the world.  John's people and educational skills were exemplary from his first days at Dublin High School in the early 1970s through his last at Foothill High School in 2008.  While at Dublin High, John taught psychology and ran Work Experience Education (an integrated educational process that helped students choose a career path based on their interests).  While at Foothill, John focused his teaching on civics and history, with his lessons stretching across the country as he led students on immersive "Close Up" field trips to Washington, DC.  John was a revered storyteller and a lifelong learner who understood the need to differentiate teaching styles to meet the individualized needs of students and to inspire, motivate, and influence learning outside the classroom walls.  Students viewed John as more than a teacher; he was also a friend. Consequently, rows and rows of students selected him to hand them their diplomas each year. John’s impact was acknowledged by being named the Department Chair, and he was celebrated with countless awards and achievements, such as being twice named in the Marquis Who’s Who book (a biographical publication highlighting individuals who made noteworthy achievements that have proved to be of significant value to society).

Outside of teaching, John had many other passions.  He enjoyed working with his hands and was always building something to enhance the beauty around the house (a trait he learned from his father).  Quite a music enthusiast, John enjoyed his album collection ranging from Andrea Bocelli to his man "The Boss."  John was a loyal Bay Area sports fan, although his favorite sports story was when he got a hole-in-one on his home course at Castlewood Country Club.  And as a lover of pets, he often enjoyed sharing snuggles with a dog on his lap.

The family knows how many were impacted by John’s generosity of spirit and welcomes all memories shared on his memorial page (https://everloved.com/life-of/john-nix/).  In lieu of flowers, the family is grateful for any donations to Alzheimer's Association and American Heart Association.

Tags: teacher/educator