John J. Nolan Jr. Dies At 53

John J. Nolan Jr.

John J. Nolan Jr. of North Haven died on Monday, October 10, from injuries sustained in an accident at his home. He was young and happy at 53.

Mr. Nolan was born May 2, 1958, in Brooklyn to John and Kathleen (née Connor) Nolan. A 1976 graduate of St. Anthony’s High School in Smithtown, he attended the State University of New York at Binghamton and C.W. Post College.

He moved to the East End in 1982, making it his home for the past 30 years. It was here that his interest in fine woodworking was honed. He learned his trade in the early 1990s and proved himself a true artisan. He established his own business, Nolan Cabinetmakers Inc., a provider of high quality cabinetry and custom millwork located in Wainscott. His artistic visions, talent with woodworking and the solution-oriented approach he brought to each project were respected by all who shared in his trade. The pieces he produced were of fine quality and will be cherished by clients and family for years to come.

In addition to his interest in woodworking, Mr. Nolan had other passions that defined his life on the East End. He was an avid sailor and master at the helm of a catamaran. As a music lover, he taught himself how to play the piano and became a student of jazz. He later was inspired to learn to play the saxophone. He passed this love of music along to family members, some of whom followed in his footsteps. He was also known to enjoy a round of golf and a bowl of good Rhode Island chowder. He enjoyed being in the kitchen, cooking with his family and entertaining friends. Mr. Nolan’s curiosity and interests were matched with a gentle but resilient nature, a wry sense of humor and a generosity of spirit that will be remembered and missed by all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Laura Nolan, mayor of the Village of North Haven; his two daughters, Kerry Nolan of Bridgehampton, and Katie Nolan of Water Mill; his step-daughter, Vanessa Gobright of New York City; his parents John and Kathleen Nolan of New Jersey; five siblings, Patrick of New York City, Maryanne of Patchogue, Timothy and his wife Ann of South Salem, Christopher and his wife Suzanne of New Rochelle and Daniel and his wife Meg of Pennsylvania; and 15 nieces and nephews.

Mr. Nolan was remembered by his family, friends, neighbors and colleagues at a memorial service on Friday, October 14, at the Breakwater Yacht Club in Sag Harbor. The family is immensely grateful for the outpouring of love and concern from friends and the community. No greater tribute could befall a man than the caring and support demonstrated as his friends and family celebrated his life. The family wishes to extend its utmost gratitude to everyone for their support.