Kevin Mcnicholas

Thomas Kevin McNicholas (Kevin), also known to many as KM, died on Tuesday, November 24, 2020 in Denver.  He was 83 years old.  Kevin decided to leave us after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

He is survived by his wife, Mary, his three children: Sean, Brendan and Shannon, and his six grandchildren.

A Denver native, Kevin was passionate about his Irish heritage; forever quoting Irish blessings and looking forward to St. Patrick’s Day all year long.  Kevin attended St. Joseph’s middle school and high school in Denver before moving on to St. Benedict’s College in Atchison, Kansas.  He moved back to his hometown after college and over the decades became a prominent member of the Denver community.

Starting his company, KM Concessions Inc., in 1971, the business still prospers to this day as the SSA Group, a partner to cultural attractions (an industry beloved by Kevin).  His employees, some of whom began working for him as a teenager, talk openly about the unique family atmosphere that Kevin created – a culture that continues to thrive today in his legacy, carried by its thousands of employees.

Kevin’s “family” extended well beyond his wife and kids. Described by those who knew him as a “true hero”, “legend”, “father figure” and “one of the best people I ever met” Kevin’s generosity touched the lives of far too many to count.    He loved betting on the underdog and lived to take care of people.

Believing in the saying “for those who much is given, much is expected,” Kevin was a man who walked the walk to help those in need.

There are a million stories about Kevin: his perfectionist ways, his passion for people, his belief in win-win, his life advice, his pat on the back, his compassion for those in need, and his catchy sayings like “big hat no cattle.”

Over his lifespan Kevin was awarded over and over again for his leadership, business ethics, stewardship, community impact and more.  His imprint here on earth is large and his legacy will continue on forever.

To show support for Kevin, in lieu of flowers, the family will be doing a celebration of life in a few months and there will be an opportunity to provide a donation in his honor to the T. Kevin McNicholas Foundation.  More information to come.