Richmond Hill, GA - Lieutenant Colonel Nikolaus "Nik" Guran, U.S. Army (Ret.), passed away on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at the age of 52. Born in Monchengladbach, Germany, on October 11, 1973, Nik was known for his unwavering dedication to his family, faith, country, and community.

Preceded in death by his parents, Claude "Red" and Lynne Guran, Nik carried forward the values they instilled in him through a life of service and leadership. Nik's academic journey saw him excel at the New Mexico Military Institute, after which he completed his undergraduate studies at the University of New Mexico. It was there that he enrolled in the U.S. Army ROTC Early Commissioning Program, setting the stage for a distinguished 25-year career in the United States Army. He completed his Master’s Degree in Military Science at the Marine Corps University in Quantico, VA. A dedicated officer and combat veteran, Nik retired in 2019 as a Lieutenant Colonel, proudly serving as an Airborne Ranger and Pathfinder. His transition from military life saw him become a successful entrepreneur, particularly in the field of property management. His post-military endeavors were equally focused on aiding fellow veterans, volunteering with organizations like Combat Boots 2 The Boardroom to assist soldiers in adapting to civilian life. Nik found great joy in coaching his sons in soccer and took delight in extending this talent to children during mission trips. He left a significant mark on everyone he encountered, encouraging them to pursue excellence, compassion, and community service.

Nik is survived by his devoted wife, Michelle Lucille Guran, with whom he would have celebrated 18 years of marriage this coming May. He was a loving father to his two sons, Jakob Nikolaus and Lucas William. Nik also leaves behind his brother, Alex Guran (Sonia), and his uncle, William "Bill" Guran (Jan), as well as his cousins, Scott Sexauer, Steve Sexauer, and Janette Linkis.

A Celebration of Life will be held Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. The family will be receiving friends from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at Compassion Christian Church - Henderson Campus, where Nik was an active and beloved member. His deep commitment to his faith and community was evident through his enthusiastic participation in mission trips and his involvement in the church’s Kids Ministry.

The family kindly requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Compassion Christian Church, specifically to their Missions and Kids Ministry, or to Combat Boots 2 The Boardroom, causes that were close to his heart.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Baker McCullough Funeral Home Hodgson Memorial Chapel.