Nickolas Gargaetas passed away Friday, September 14, 2012 at the VA hospital in Roseburg, OR. Nick or Nick the Greek, as he was affectionately known by his family and friends, was 89.
Nick was born in Crescent City on June 5, 1923 to George and Maroula Gargaetas. He attended local schools, graduating from Del Norte High School. Shortly after graduation, Nick joined the Untied State Army and served during World War II as a gunnery instructor. In 1942, he married Sally McNamara. They made their home in Crescent City and raised two children. Judith and Patricia. Nick lost Sally in 1970 to Lupus.
After working as the manager of a local car dealership, Nick went to work for the city and served as purchasing agent for over 30 years. In 1972, he married Ann Wheelon and raised his second family. He was very active in the community, serving on both the City Council and City Planning Commission. Nick was a member of the Crescent City Lions Club, the Crescent City Fire Volunteer Fire Department for over 50 years, a charter member of the Sunrise Rotary Club and life member of the Crescent City Elks Club.
Nick is survived by his wife of 40 years, Ann; by his children Judith Templin, Patricia Gargaetas, Jeffrey Wheelon, Kimberly Hindley, David Wheelon, Scott Wheelon, and Kristiane Paulucci. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Dorothy Gargaetas, nine grandchildren, eleven great grandchildren and numerous nieces & nephews.
Nick is preceded in death by his parents George & Maroula Gargaetas, his first wife Sally McNamera Gargaetas, two grandchildren Leslie Scott and Justin Hindley and his brothers Christopher Gargaetas and Archie Gargaetas.