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Peter C. Nikolich of Southampton died at Stony Brook University Hospital on April 25. He was 95.
Born on May 19, 1920, in Clairton, Pennsylvania, he was the seventh and last surviving child of eight children born to Croatian immigrants Mary and Marion Nikolich. He graduated from Duquesne University Prep School in 1938. After three years of employment in his home town, he enlisted in the United States Navy in May of 1941. He was honorably discharged in November 1945, holding the rank of storekeeper first class. During his tour of duty, he was selected to participate in talks with allies under the Lead-Lease program because he was fluent in three languages.
In late 1941, on a trip to Southampton to visit the Norsic family, an old friendship carried over from Croatia, he met his future wife, Barbara Norsic. They were married in October 1944.
After his discharge, he worked 11 years for his father-in-law at Emil Norsic and Son before he and his wife started their own business, Nikolich Sanitation, Inc., in 1956. He was known to his customers as always having a story to share or ready to “chat for just a few minutes” which usually lasted a little longer. After 43 years, the business was sold in 1998, allowing him to enjoy retirement along with his wife.
He was a devoted parishioner of the Basilica Parish of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, and a member of The Knights of Columbus, Southampton Chapter #1967, for 68 years, having earned the status of 4th degree Knight and having served as Grand Knight. He was a member of the Southampton American Legion Post and the Southampton VFW Post. He was a founding member of the Quarterback Club in support of Southampton Hospital.
Predeceased by his wife, Barbara; and a grandson, Brian P. Nikolich, he is survived by two children, Peter E. Nikolich and wife Maureen of Southampton, Robert G. Nikolich and wife Christine of Virginia; three grandchildren, John and wife Jennifer of Connecticut, Sarah Nikolich of Maryland, Laura Nikolich of Philadelphia; and four great-grandchildren.
A funeral Mass was held on April 29 at the Basilica of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary in Southampton, followed by interment with military honors at Sacred Hearts Cemetery. Funeral arrangements were under the direction of the O’Connell Funeral Home in Southampton.
Memorial donations may be made to the Basilica Parish of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary “In Nomine Domini” Fund, 168 Hill Street, Southampton, New York 11968; or The ALS Foundation, SC Chapter, 7499 Parklane Road #144, Columbia, South Carolina 29223.
on May 2, 2016