Nicolas C. Behner, 44, passed away Tuesday evening July 9, 2024 while enjoying snorkeling for shells in the warm, shallow waters of the Gulf of Mexico in the Pensacola/Fort Walton Beach area. He was vacationing with his wife of seven years and her family.

Nic graduated May 13, 1998, from Hamilton Heights High School, Arcadia, Indiana and went on to attend Indiana University. Nic enjoyed working out, mountain climbing, skydiving, surfing, scuba diving, racing motorcycles, drawing, and producing music. Most of all he enjoyed spending time with his wife, family, and their two fur babies Oliver and Tiny Tim. He read constantly and was knowledgeable on many topics. Nic's gypsy spirit was always calling him to travel and explore never being able to stay in one place very long.

Nic traveled the United States and Canada working as a nationally certified/licensed drug and alcohol counselor and interventionist. He most recently worked at helping save lives as a drug rehab intake counselor. An outpouring of texts and calls expressing how much people loved him and helped them either with their addiction or a family member's have been received. Hearing this is comforting for the grieving family. Even though he fought his own battles, God allowed him to conquer those demons and help others. Nic had a heart of gold and was one of the most selfless people always wanting to give back to others. He was also a certified welder having worked at Wabash National in Lafayette, Indiana for several years. We will miss his big bear hugs, his devious giggle, and his constant reminders of how much he loved his family, his friends, and God. We love you buddy!

Nic is survived by his wife Bianca Nicole Behner (Steeprock); stepson Brandon Steeprock (Abby), and two grandchildren Brandon Jr., and Brody James; parents Dr. E. Dale Behner and Annette "Lynn" Behner (Brunst); siblings Ryan J. Behner (Samantha) and Tadd A. Behner (Aleesha); niece Lilian Behner and nephew Jaxson Behner; a number of aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Henry "Harry" C. Brunst and Ruby I. Brunst (Riggle), Wayne E. Behner and Velma J. Behner (Sevison), Uncle Charles D. Kimmel and Aunt Janet I. Kimmel (Brunst).

Private services were held at Riggle-Waltermann Funeral Home in Richmond, Indiana. In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to one of the following: The Humane Society of the U.S. or to Teen Challenge https://teenchallengeusa.org .