Michael John Nist

Michael John Nist, “Mike,” 78, of Browns Point, WA, died peacefully on January 2, 2026 at St Francis Hospital.  Born November 2, 1947, he was the beloved son of the late Gene and Carole (Tarp) Nist. He loved growing up in Tacoma and on the waterfront in Browns Point, spending time with his sister Vicki, and treasured his years at the Marymount Military Academy in his youth. Mike was a graduate of Stadium High School (Class of 1966) and Central Washington University (class of 1970). 

Mike joined the family business in 1970 and spent over five decades at Seattle-Tacoma Box Company.  He was instrumental in developing the company’s sales footprint, particularly in the seafood industry in Alaska and the agricultural industry in Hawaii. He was a natural salesman and loved developing many relationships with his customers, which turned into lifelong friendships. His love of travel and sales took him all over the country and even the world, including visits to especially loved places in Alaska and Hawaii. Mike continued to thrive as a vital part of the company and was blessed to have the opportunity to work beside his two sons and the extended Nist family until his death. 

Mike had the biggest heart and was always looking to help others.  He was instrumental in corporate philanthropy efforts, culminating in the creation of the Seattle-Tacoma Box Legacy Foundation in 2024, and served as the Foundation’s Vice-President until his passing.

Mike was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting and fishing, and his numerous trips to Alaska and Eastern Washington with friends and family.  Mike was a friend to every animal and was never without the companionship of a trusted hunting dog. He loved spending time along the Washington Coast at Ocean Shores Outdoor Recreation Club and, in his later years, time in sunny Arizona.  

Mike was a deeply beloved husband, father, grandpa, uncle, cousin, brother and friend. He was the life of every party, and everyone he met became a friend to him. He made the most of every moment he had and lived a life filled with adventure, hard work, and love. The biggest tribute we can make to his life well-lived is to “Live like Mike.”

Mike is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Teri; his son Jake Nist and wife Jeannie of Tacoma, WA; daughter Katie Ewell and husband Jesse of San Clemente, CA; son Joey Nist and wife Monica of Tacoma, WA; and his daughter Kristi Nist of Tacoma, WA; as well as his nine grandchildren Makena, Jesse Jr., Luke, Julia, Emily, Jocelyn, Wesley, Tanner and Carsen, who were all the joys of his life. He is also survived by his sister Vicki Nist of Puyallup, WA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mike’s honor to the Seattle-Tacoma Box Legacy Foundation at: https://stblegacy.org/mike-nist-memorial/

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, April 25^th at 2 pm at Marine View Presbyterian Church followed by a joyful reception to share memories and a toast at the Browns Point Improvement Club. 

Open House and Reception, Saturday, April 25th at 4pm at Browns Point Improvement Club, 201 Ton-A-Wan-Da Ave NE, Tacoma, WA 98422.