GUMC LEADERSHIP

Pastor Nicolas grew up in Mundy Township. He earned a B.A. from Alma College and entered the business world where he worked in Human Resources, Payroll and as a Payroll Software Consultant. In 2012, Nick took on the role of part-time pastor for Melvindale New Hope UMC, and in 2016 he became a full-time member of the clergy at Plymouth First.

In addition to his B.A. from Alma College, Nick has an MBS from Walsh College and a Masters of Divinity from the Methodist Theological Seminary in Ohio. He has served as a member of the clergy at Melvindale, Plymouth, Ann Arbor First, Canton Cherry Hill and Ypsilanti St. Matthews.

Along the way he met Lisa, they married and had three children, Victoria, Zane and Marisa. All three are now young adults and have given Nick three grandchildren with a fourth on the way.

Sadly, after 31 years of marriage, Lisa passed away from ALS in late 2020. Nick continued to serve as a member of the clergy for another year after Lisa’s death, but finally decided to take a leave of absence to allow his spirit to heal. During that time, he worked as a substitute elementary school teacher. His time with children rekindled his love of teaching, mentoring and uplifting people.

While on leave Nick also reunited with his college sweetheart, Tara. Despite not seeing each other for 35 years, they instantly reconnected and recently married. Tara is a college professor and published author but retains her small-town Michigan roots.

Pastor Nick is excited to be returning to the area of his youth and looks forward to seeing what God has in store for him and the Goodrich church as they journey into their next chapters together.