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Nicholas Vincent Pena

Feb. 16, 1990-Oct. 6, 2012

  Nick, a 22-year-old Sonoma native, attended Sonoma schools throughout his life as well as Summit Preparatory School in Montana.  After graduation, he held a local positions as a program aide for second- and third-graders at the Valley of the Moon Boys & Girls Club, and for two years as a barista at Barking Dog Roasters.

  In his free time, when not making music, he pursued his hobbies of reading, creative writing, jogging and hiking.

  Nick’s love of music shaped his life, beginning with talent shows, an occasional stint as DJ on KSVY radio and later on Internet station Forty Radio. He was also known as “Penavision,” a DJ name given to him in high school.  He also was a DJ at clubs and events throughout the Bay Area, and was well-known as a creator of beats. Earlier this year, Nick attended Berkeley City College, and in August transferred to the Art Institute of California, San Francisco to pursue a bachelor’s degree in sound engineering and production.

  He will always be remembered for his smile which “lit up the room,” his frequent hugs, compassion for others, dedication to family and friends and sense of humor.

  Nick is survived by his loving parents, Richard and Christine Pena, of Sonoma; and sister, Lauren Pena, of Newberg, Ore., who he admired and loved so much. He is also survived by his grandmother, Frances Minkler, of Oakland; as well as cousins, aunts, uncles and extended family.

  Memorial services will be held Saturday, Oct. 20, at 11 a.m. at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church, 16290 Arnold Dr., Sonoma. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in Nick’s memory are suggested; please send to Social Advocates for Youth, 1055 Broadway, Suite. E-2, Sonoma, CA. 95476.