Nicholas P. Giambatista's Obituary
Nicholas Peter Giambatista, 96, of Syracuse, passed away Monday at Upstate University Hospital with his loving family at his side. He was born in Syracuse, son of Mario and Lucy (Colucci) Giambatista of John Street. A very accomplished athlete, Nicholas was awarded letters in four sports; football, basketball, baseball, and track at North High and was voted top athlete of his class (and best looking). Nicholas went on to play fullback at Pennington Prep and Syracuse University.
After serving in the U.S. Army Military Police during WWII, Nick worked at Hoffman Tool and Dye and nine years as a Detective in the Syracuse Police Department in addition to running his own railroad contracting business. Nicholas was a well-known, outstanding builder of railroad tracks and railroad yards across the Northeast.
Besides being a well-known contractor, he found time to refinish furniture, collect and repair antique clocks, support the Muscular Dystrophy Association and spend time at a favorite gathering spot for his devoted and loving family at a summer home on Oneida Lake.
Nicholas, a devoted husband and father and very successful railroad contractor, lead each facet of his life with hard work, vigor, and pride. He is known for his compassionate response to people in need. Everyone who knew Nick will agree that he leaves a big hole in the hearts of people who appreciated a man of supreme character, decency, and dedication. He left a legacy of tolerance and joy!
He was predeceased by his wife, Elizabeth (Greis) Giambatista in 2000; his daughter, Elizabeth Peters in 2008; his son, Nicholas Giambatista in 1996; two brothers, Anthony Giambatista, and Robert Giambatista; sister-in-law, Betty Giambatista.
Nicholas leaves behind his children, Anna Marie Collins of Quaker Street, NY, Michael Giambatista of Syracuse, and Mary Jo “MJ” Giambatista of Cicero; two grandsons, James and Nicholas Collins; six great-grandsons; sister-in-law, Noreen Giambatista; son-in-law, James Collins; several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, May 26, 2017 at the THOMAS J. PIRRO JR. FUNERAL HOME, followed by a Funeral Mass in celebration of Nicholas’ life at 11:00 AM in St. John the Baptist Church. Burial will be in Assumption Cemetery. Family and friends may call from 4:00 – 7:00 PM on Thursday, May 25, 2017 at the funeral home, 3401 Vickery Rd. (corner of Buckley Rd.) North Syracuse, NY.
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