Nick Lees Death & Obituary: Nicholas Lees, a beloved figure from Edmonton, Alberta, passed away at the Canterbury Foundation on June 24, 2024, after battling prostate cancer and the onset of dementia. The news of his passing was shared on social media with a touching message: “A true #yeg legend has been lost. We at Edify are saddened to learn of the passing of legendary columnist and philanthropist Nick Lees. We featured Nick in our January issue, and now we post it again in remembrance.”
Who Was Nick Lees?
A Multifaceted Personality
Nicholas Lees wore many hats throughout his life. He was a bike enthusiast, traveler, wine writer for the Edmonton Journal, human interest columnist, and a passionate advocate for charity fundraising. Known for his engaging news and feature reporting, Nick delighted readers for nearly 50 years with his insightful columns and innovative fundraising efforts. His writings spotlighted both prominent and lesser-known local figures, making a significant impact on the Edmonton community.
Early Life and Adventures
Born in Scotland, Nick’s life was so extravagant that he created the persona “Nick Danger” to recount the more extreme adventures he experienced. These included running marathons, skydiving from military aircraft, climbing Mount Logan in Yukon, participating in demolition derbies, and skiing the Birkebeiner. His stories, often thought to be exaggerated, turned out to be remarkably true, capturing the essence of his adventurous spirit.
Philanthropy and Community Impact
Nick’s passion for adventure was matched by his dedication to philanthropy. He integrated fundraising into his adventurous pursuits, contributing millions of dollars to local organizations. He often worked with strangers who quickly became friends through his fundraising appeals.
One notable fundraiser involved persuading forty bikers to accompany a specially carved totem pole for the Stollery Children’s Hospital on a 1,700-kilometre journey from Haida Gwaii to Edmonton, raising nearly $400,000. In 2019, he raised funds for CASA Mental Health during a return trip from Jasper to Haida Gwaii. His last major fundraising success was his 80th birthday celebration, which raised over $250,000 for the University Hospital Foundation.
Nick Lees Obituary and Funeral Arrangements
The family will release the obituary and funeral arrangements for Nicholas Lees at a later date.
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Conclusion
Nicholas Lees’s legacy of adventure, storytelling, and philanthropy will continue to inspire those who knew him and those who followed his work. His life was a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and generosity. As Edmonton mourns the loss of this remarkable individual, his spirit and contributions will forever be remembered and celebrated.
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