Nicholas Bradley “Nick” Hightdudis, 24, born in Oakland, California, and residing in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, died on April 28, 2026.

Nicholas attended Roosevelt Elementary School and Wauwatosa Montessori School and graduated from Wauwatosa East High School during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

Nick enjoyed traveling and visiting science, history, and art museums. He also enjoyed hiking and spending time outdoors, as well as ice skating at the Pettit National Ice Center.

Nicholas volunteered to walk dogs at the Wisconsin Humane Society and participated in bird banding and gathering data on snakes, small mammals, butterflies, and dragonflies at the Urban Ecology Center.

Nick loved drawing and creating interesting, expressive characters and artwork that he used to share how he saw the world and his life. He also enjoyed playing and designing video games. He had a rich baritone speaking and singing voice and looked completely at home on stage. He participated in theatre from childhood through young adulthood, including productions with Milwaukee Children’s Theatre, Wauwatosa East High School, and the Village Playhouse of Wauwatosa.

Nicholas enjoyed his time working for Milwaukee County Parks, especially at Lake Park.

He had a wickedly sharp sense of humor and an intense interest in politics and social justice, and he was never afraid to think critically and ask hard questions.

Nick lived with inner struggles that made it difficult for him to see his own value and place in the world. He is deeply loved and deeply missed.

Nicholas is survived by his mother, Jennifer Lautz; his sister, Katherine “Kate” Hightdudis; his grandfather, Donald Lautz; many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends; and his beloved cat, Cleo.

He was preceded in death by his parent, Sophia Bradley, formerly Bradley Hightdudis; his grandparents, George and Ruth Hightdudis; and his grandmother, Maureen Lautz.

A gathering in Nicholas’ memory will be held Sunday, July 19, 2026, from 1:00–4:00 p.m. at Jacobus Park Pavilion. Friends and loved ones of Nicholas and his family are invited to stop by and share memories, stories, and time together in celebration of his life.