It is with immense sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved father, brother, nonno and friend. Nicola passed away in his home surrounded by his most-loved ones during special prayers and music while snowflakes fell gently from the sky.
Nicola was born in Civitanova Del Sannio, Italy, and immigrated to Powell River with his family when he was 12 years old. He attended James Thomson Elementary School in Wildwood and graduated from Max Cameron Secondary School in 1963. Nick began his employment with MacMillan Bloedel in the statistical department in 1967. He then moved on to become a paper maker and put in a total of 35 years of service with the company.
Nicola was a very athletic individual and played many sports, excelling particularly in soccer, volleyball and swimming. He was also known to walk on his hands. Nick enjoyed the outdoors and spent much of his youth fishing on his boat, both on the ocean and the lakes.
Nick loved to sing and dance and was very musical. He learned to play the accordion at the young age of six years old and continued to play joyfully right up to his final days.
In 1978, Nicola met the love of his life, Luisa, and they were married in Rome, Italy. He was a loving husband and father and worked hard to raise his family with enjoyment and pride. Nick was always incredibly warm and remarkably friendly to anyone who entered his home and loved sharing food and drink around the table with his people.
Nick was devout in his prayer life and very passionate about his faith. During the battle with his illness, his faith and spirit remained strong, and he was an inspiration to all.
Papa, you were the patriarch of our family and a very special man. You always gave each one of us such unconditional love. You possessed an amazing ability to connect with those around you, and your big smile revealed your big heart. You taught us that God and family are everything. We had so many good times together, and you will forever be in our hearts. May God be with you until we meet again, "Nicolino."
Nick was predeceased by his wife of 47 years Luisa. He is survived by his children Joseph (Heidi) and Diana (Michael), and his three beautiful grandchildren Gabriel, Lynden and Grace.
The family would like to thank the local palliative team and care aids for their wonderful support and assistance through Nicola's short but courageous battle with cancer. We would also like to thank the members of our community and Nicola's brother and sisters from Assumption Parish, who supported the family during this difficult period in time.
Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11 am on Monday, February 17, 2025 (Family Day), at the Catholic Church of the Assumption.
