Mr. Nicholas D. "Nick" Lazzaro

Mr. Nicholas D. “Nick” Lazzaro, age 83, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, November 6, 2016 in the comfort of his home. Born in Utica on November 28, 1932, Nicholas was the son of the late Peter and Filomena (Vertucci) Lazzaro. A graduate of T.R. Proctor High School, Nick enlisted in the United States Navy after his senior year. He honorably served his country during the Korean Conflict as an ammunition foreman from 1951-1955 serving stateside, in Japan and the Philippines. On September 10, 1955 he married the former Eleanor Monopoli with whom he shared 61 years. He was devoted to his wife and through the years, their bond of love grew even stronger. Prior to owning and operating his own business, the N.D. Lazzaro Construction Company, he worked for area builders. He had a passion for his work and was respected in his area of expertise as a concrete artist. While he was working, he furthered his education at Utica College, majoring in Architectural Design. Nick was a man of few words most of his life, but during recent years he opened his heart and shared his thoughts and emotions. He also opened his home and his arms to embrace others with his memorable Italian hospitality. As patriarch, he had strong values and great strength of character; he was a man who meant what he said and he kept his word. Nick saw the good in others and was always willing to help. His wife, children, and grandchildren were the center of his life. He was a great provider and taught his children to have faith, be responsible, and share their love. Nick was a non-judgmental and forgiving soul, and only the Good Lord knew the many acts of kindness that were quietly carried out by this humble, generous man. No matter the season, Nick loved the outdoors. In winter, he was a downhill skier, a sport he taught his children and grandchildren. He especially enjoyed the ski slopes and scenic beauty of McCauley Mountain in Old Forge. In summer, he swam in his pool and set the pace for his kids. He was a New York Yankees fan and even his grandchildren caught his enthusiasm during the excitement of the moment as they all watched the baseball games. At Nick’s place, there were plenty of holiday parties and family gatherings back in the day when he enjoyed his Chianti and black coffee on Sundays. He was a member of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters, local union #120. A parishioner of St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church, Nick was a man of great faith and prayed for the intentions of others. Nicholas is survived by his wife, Eleanor “Ele”; his son, Nicholas A. Lazzaro and Gina Verminski; his daughters and sons-in-law, Rena and Dan Scharf, and Cathy and Kevin Brown; and his grandchildren, Jennifer and Lisa Rae Lazzaro, Nicholas J. Lazzaro, and their mother, Lori Ann; Michael and Kyra Lazzaro, and Mac Scharf; Bianca Brown, and twins, Alex Brown and Alyssa Brown. He also leaves his sisters and brother-in-law, Chiarine “Core” and Robert Novak, and Joyce Lazzaro; his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws, Carole Lazzaro, Philomena Lazzaro, Patricia Monopoli, and Dolores Hubbard with whom he shared many Sunday family dinners. He was predeceased by his infant sister, Dolores Lazzaro; his brothers, Peter A. Lazzaro, and Lou Lazzaro; his sister and brother-in-law, MaryJane and Americo Malta; and his in-laws, Daniel J. and Antoinette Monopoli, Mary Pacitto, Nicholas Monopoli, and James Hubbard. He held a great remembrance for his longtime friends, Andy and Mary Morgan. The family expresses sincere appreciation to the staff of Dr. Anderson who were wonderful to Nick; and Sylvia Pescatore who faithfully served him Holy Communion. Visitation will be held Friday from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Nicholas’ funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Saturday morning at 9:30 from the funeral home and at 10:30 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Mark Kaminski with Military Honors conferred. Entombment will take place in Calvary Cemetery Mausoleum at the convenience of the family.

Mr. Nicholas D. "Nick" Lazzaro

November 28, 1932 - November 6, 2016