Mark Louis Nickolaou, age 58, of Saint John, Indiana peacefully passed away at his home on November 11, 2023. His love and humor continue to be felt by all who knew him. He was the loving husband of Marcia; proud father of Matthew, Mitchell, and Michael; cherished brother of Mike (Eileen) Nickolaou, Becky (Jeff) Camalick, Donna Fredenrich, Nick Nickolaou, Mary Beth (Dewey) Pearman; sonin-law to Ray and LaVonne Guthrie; brother-in-law to Gordon Guthrie, Lori (Greg) Combs, and Amy Guthrie, and a nephew, cousin, uncle, and friend to many more. Mark was preceded in death by his parents, Mike and Cathy, and his son, Timothy Mark.

Mark was born in Chicago, Illinois. He grew up in Lansing, Illinois and graduated from Thornton Fractional South High School. Mark continued his education at Governor State University, and would go on to cut his path in the world of business software. His impact on web-based ERP software will be felt for years to come. Alongside his work, Mark loved to travel worldwide. From business trips to vacations, he found himself all across the world from Germany to Japan, and nearly every major city in the United States and Canada. With all this travel, Mark loved to stay active and stay fit, from hobbies like tennis, golf, and bicycling, to morning trips at Fitness Point in Munster, Indiana, where he made countless friends.

The centerpiece of Mark's life was his faith in Jesus. A relationship with God through Jesus Christ was his cornerstone, and he sought deeper understanding through his involvement in church. His engagement with Christ would take him to participate in groups like Promise Keepers, form bible study groups with friends new and old, and work on developing a local chapter of Alpha.

Among his greatest joys was spending time with his family. Mark was the consummate host with the Nickolaou tradition of pool parties, and would look like just another big kid, whether playing with his nieces and nephews, or once they had all grown, his great-nieces and great-nephews. He loved healthy competition and teaming up to play badminton, bocce ball, and billiards. Mark's enthusiasm and love of fun would ensure everyone would have a good time.

Mark did not know any strangers. If you were not his friend yet, you were about to be. Within minutes he would be connecting, asking, sharing, and laughing. Those who loved and knew him best will miss his booming voice that filled every room. Mark loved life. He woke each day happy and optimistic even in difficult seasons. You were blessed if you knew him.

In keeping with Mark's wishes, there will be a visitation from 9:00 to 10:30 AM at Faith Church in Dyer, Indiana, on Saturday, January 13, 2024. with a Celebration of Life immediately following at 10:30 A.M. Mark's family would like to extend deep gratitude for the outpouring of love, prayers, kindness, and condolences. You have helped to carry them at this difficult time. Schroeder-Lauer Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements and care of Mark.