Stand by Heidi During a Sad and Challenging Time

Dear Friends and Family,

Our dear friend Heidi Nunnikoven, who is known for her kindness, gentle nature, and generosity, needs our help.

Tragically, Tony Nunikohven, Heidi’s husband of 35 years, passed away in his sleep on February 25th in Palisades, CA, leaving a void that can never be filled.

After nearly five years of complex and financially draining recovery from a near-fatal heart attack, Tony was feeling better and working as an official for FIS Alpine ski race events. The evening before Tony passed, he called Heidi to tell her how happy he was and how much he enjoyed being at Palisades. He told her he had squeezed in some quality free skiing, including a run down the iconic KT21, and was going to bed feeling joyful and optimistic.

As some of you may know, Tony’s health challenges were compounded by Heidi having to focus on caring for Tony, Heidi losing her job, and then suffering a series of injuries now attributed to advanced osteoporosis. In July, Heidi was pulled off her bike while exercising their dog and shattered her femur. Heidi was bed-bound for months and is still walking with the aid of a crutch and can not stand for long periods.

With their savings depleted, added expenses associated with the death of a loved one and recovery from a significant injury, limited ability to work, and losing Tony, Heidi is facing a daunting financial challenge. She will have a difficult time making ends meet and staying in their home, especially in the coming months.

This is where we, Tony and Heidi’s friends and family, can make a real difference. Our support can sustain Heidi during this challenging time and show her how much she and Tony have meant to their communities over the years.

This lovely couple has touched so many people, groups, and communities over the years. From the large and focused Alpine ski racing world, the regional geocaching community, deep Steamboat roots, determined fishing obsessives, and the local mountain bike lady posse to Tony’s 35+ year involvement with AA as a mentor and caring force. When you donate, please share a story so this wide-ranging community of the Nunnikovens can come together.

PS Go Fund Me would not allow the removal of a "Date of Service" from this fundraiser. Tony's death is very recent and a service date or celebration of life has not been established. There are very real and immdiate expenses needing to be addressed ASAP. In example, did you know that cremation could cost more than $3,000 plus the efforts to transfer the remains and Tony's belongings from CA to MT?

PPS

Special thanks to:

Rusty Squire who will be traveling to CA to bring Tony's truck and belongings back to MT. His efforts and dedication to both Heidi and Tony has been amazing.

Tamara McKinney for being the logistical and emotional support in CA and her long friendship with both Tony and Heidi.

Marshall Wilson a Livingston friend and retired lawyer who is helping Heidi with complicated paperwork and MT logistics.