[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 148 (Wednesday, September 13, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E843-E844]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    HONORING THE LIFE OF NICK GOMES

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. JIM COSTA

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 13, 2023

  Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, today, we gather to pay tribute to the 
remarkable life of Steven Nicholas ``Nick'' Gomes, a beloved son of 
Merced, California, whose legacy resonates with kindness, resilience, 
and unwavering love. Nick left an indelible mark on the hearts of 
friends, family, and community.
  Born in Merced, California, Nick's life was a testament to his 
boundless curiosity and passion for learning. Even at the tender age of 
2,

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he displayed a remarkable ability to read newspaper comics with 
comprehension, foreshadowing a life marked by intellectual curiosity 
and a thirst for knowledge. Nick's childhood was a tapestry woven with 
the threads of joy and adventure, from mastering Nintendo games to 
relishing Sunday morning cartoons and comics.
  As Nick transitioned to adolescence, his spirit of competition and 
determination flourished. At Merced High School, he harnessed his 
strategic mind and physical strength to dominate the football field as 
an offensive guard. His dedication and prowess on the gridiron were a 
testament to his unwavering commitment to success. In academics, Nick 
shone just as brightly, excelling in FFA and emerging as a leader in 
parliamentary procedure and debate. His high school journey continued 
at Golden Valley High School, where he further demonstrated his 
dexterity as a scholar, athlete, and leader. Nick's accomplishments, 
including academic excellence, athletic success, and contributions to 
his community, culminated in his graduation summa cum laude. With a 
full-ride scholarship to Oregon State University awaiting him, Nick's 
path took an unexpected turn due to injuries. His resilience led him 
back to his roots, where he earned an associate degree at Merced 
College while playing football and contributing to his community. 
Nick's professional journey, which included a successful tenure at Best 
Buy and a Bachelor of Science degree in Business from Grand Canyon 
University, paved the way for a distinguished career in public service.
  Nick's dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of others 
was evident through his role as one of my District Representatives in 
the Merced Area when I represented CA-16. Known for his patient 
demeanor, Nick's ability to engage with constituents exemplified his 
commitment to open dialogue and understanding. His efforts extended 
beyond office walls, as he advocated for community projects, such as 
securing grants for local water infrastructure improvements in 
communities like Dos Palos. Nick's compassion extended to his family, 
where he showed his love through selfless actions, genuine connections, 
and a willingness to go the extra mile. A devoted uncle, brother, and 
son, Nick's warmth and affection radiated through his interactions with 
family. His dedication to his niece and nephew, his unwavering support 
for his parents, and his loving presence at family gatherings 
underscored his deep-rooted connection to those he held dear. As a 
friend, Nick's impact was equally profound. For over two decades, he 
shared his love for strategy games and imaginative storytelling, 
enchanting those around him with his natural charisma.
  In the spring of 2022, Nick met the love of his life, Lindsy Newman. 
Their connection showed the transformative power of love and the 
happiness it brings to those who find it. Nick's journey, marked by 
kindness, resilience, and a zest for life, teaches us that every moment 
is an opportunity to make a positive impact. We extend our deepest 
condolences to Nick's parents, Steven and Victoria Gomes, his sister 
Melissa, his nieces and nephews, and his friends who were fortunate to 
share in his journey.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my esteemed colleagues to join me in honoring the 
life and legacy of Steven Nicholas ``Nick'' Gomes, a talented young man 
who touched hearts and inspired all who had the privilege of knowing 
him.

                          ____________________