Erika Lynn Sakamoto Nicks-Castel
May 18, 1989 - April 10, 2025
Obituary
Erika Lynn Sakamoto Nicks-Castel passed away peacefully at home on April 10, 2025, at the age of 35, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was surrounded by her loved ones, who will carry her spirit forward by living their lives to the fullest, forever inspired by her kindness and curiosity.
Erika completed her Bachelor’s Degree at the University of Washington and studied abroad for one year at the University of Tokyo in Japan, where she met her husband Etienne, before obtaining her Associate Degree in Graphic and UX Design at Seattle Central. She was an accomplished design professional, making long-lasting contributions to major companies in several countries, including Alaska Airlines in Seattle and KLM in the Netherlands. She also applied her knowledge and expertise to start-ups and design agencies, and more recently was a key member and lead designer for Migaku, a language learning platform where she blended her love for languages and cultures with her passion for design and creative work.
Born and raised in the Seattle area, Erika was inspired by her rich dual heritage, with a deep love for both the Pacific Northwest and Japan. She enjoyed exploring new places and immersing herself in nature. Hiking, cycling, trying delicious foods, caring for her colorful pet birds, and soaking in the calm warmth of a sunny day while painting a landscape were some of her favorite ways to spend time. She had a great ability to find happiness in simple, everyday moments.
Erika’s sense of wonder, contagious smile, and genuine open-mindedness left a strong impression on everyone she met, across the United States, Japan, France, the Netherlands, and beyond.
She is survived by her husband, Etienne Castel; her parents, Richard and Yuko Nicks; brother Kenichiro (Ken) Nicks, and sisters Lisa (Nicks) Iwaya and Monica Nicks.
For those who wish to honor Erika’s memory, donations may be made to Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center or the Head and Neck Cancer Alliance.
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Donate to the Head and Neck Cancer Aliance
