Mark Gervase Nickens

MARK GERVASE NICKENSApril 8, 1959 – April 24, 2025

MARK GERVASE NICKENS was born on April 8, 1959. He transitioned to his heavenly home on April 24, 2025. Mark was the 12th of 16 children born to the late Gladys Theresa and Norwood Barnes Nickens.

Mark was baptized as an infant at the Catholic Church of the Incarnation. He maintained the Catholic faith throughout his life and remained a member of Incarnation at the time of his passing.

As a young child, Mark developed an interest in basketball. He often went to the neighborhood basketball court with his older brothers, who were exceptional and accomplished players in their own right. His love for the game was undoubtedly nurtured and inspired by their influence.

Mark was educated in the parochial schools of the Archdiocese of Washington. He attended Holy Redeemer School for his elementary education, where he formed many lifelong friendships and honed his athletic skills.

He later attended Mackin High School, where his talent on the court began to shine. During his senior year, he was selected to play in the McDonald’s Capital Classic, an honor reserved for the top players in the region. Mark graduated from Mackin in May of 1978.

Mark began his college career at Texas Christian University before transferring to American University, where he graduated with a degree in Criminal Justice.

Mark’s college years were defined by basketball excellence. He was named a two-time All-American in 1981 and 1982. In 1982, he was honored as the East Coast Conference Co-Player of the Year and Most Valuable Player. He ranked as the tenth all-time leading scorer and fourth in all-time steals at American University. His jersey, number 15, is proudly displayed among the university’s all-time greats. That same year, he competed internationally in the Seoul Invitational Basketball Tournament. In 1983, he was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks—a fitting testament to his extraordinary skill and dedication on the court.

Outside of basketball, Mark loved his family deeply. He especially enjoyed mentoring the younger generation, often giving them basketball drills and workouts to do. Mark was present at all family events—usually one of the first to arrive and one of the last to leave. He was a talented mixologist, known for crafting creative and memorable cocktails. He also had impressive culinary skills and loved to cook and grill.

Mark was witty, fun to be around, and had a keen sense of humor that made his presence all the more cherished.

Professionally, Mark spent over 35 years at Kastle Systems, where he was admired for his kindness, strong work ethic, and positive spirit.

Later in life, Mark developed a passion for hand dancing. He studied under the direction of Bradford Lawrence at the Smooth and EZ Hand Dance Institute and was a graduate of the 22nd Hand Dance class in March of 1999.

Mark was deeply rooted in his faith and community. At Incarnation, he served as Assistant Church Hall Manager, helping to set up and monitor events. He was also active in various ministries, including the Ministers of Hospitality and the Hand Dance Ministry.

Mark is survived by his beloved siblings.Six sisters: Norma (Rauph), Francine (Dennis), Ave (Anthony), Gabrielle (Clarence), Marita (Kevin), and KimberlyThree brothers: Ronald (Evelyn), Jerry, and Harry (Angela)Seven nieces: Tanya, Tajuan, Carmen, Nia (Dameion), Alisha, Lauren, and LeahTen nephews: Troy (April), Bryant (Stacey), Nakii, Christopher, Juan, Cordell, Mark, Salim, Jalen, and EllingtonFourteen great-nieces: Tanay (Abdul), Danielle (Reginald), Shayna, Cambria, Deshea, Tory, Andrea, Tanyra, Tianna, Nakiah, Amaris, Ariella, Olive, and ZaraEleven great-nephews: Stephen, Troy Jr., Devin, Marquis, Jaden, Avery, Tyriq, Amari, Logan, Bryant, and TyrusTwo great-great-nieces: Aliyah and KaydenceFour great-great-nephews: Dajuan, Carter, Jaxson, and DainTwo aunts: Jeanne and JaniceOne great-aunt: ShirleyAnd a host of other relatives and friends.

Mark was preceded in death by his parents Norwood Sr. and Gladys T. Nickens, two sisters Tyjuana and Marietta, four brothers Norwood Jr., Rodney, Frank, Yul, and one great-nephew Ezekiel.