Mr. Nick V. DeAngelis

Mr. Nick V. DeAngelis was a modest man, quiet and observant in his ways. He was trustworthy and traditional in his approach to his life and in his relationships. He was tough-minded with the kind of “stick to it” attitude that earned the respect of all who knew him. He was also a man who was meticulous, carefully disciplined, and orderly in virtually everything he undertook. Realistic about life, he was always at the ready, prepared to take on responsibility.

      Nick was born on July 12, 1931 in Bari, Italy. He was the son of Michelangelo and Rosalina. Nick spent his childhood in Italy.

      Nick was raised with 3 siblings. He had Joe, John, and Melina. Nick was usually involved in all sorts of activities with his siblings. He and his siblings experienced rivalries typical of a growing family, but they shared many life experiences over the years.

      As a young boy, Nick had a number of interests. Like most children, he enjoyed playing and making up games. He was curious about the world around him and was often eager to explore it. Nick was an active child who took part in soccer. However, to Nick, the most fun to be had was simply playing and spending time with his friends.

      A typical teenager, Nick had a fairly happy high school experience, making that critical transition from adolescence to adulthood. He graduated in 1948. He enjoyed some classes more than others, having favorite subjects and teachers. The teacher he enjoyed learning from the most was Dr. Paladino.

      Nick enjoyed his college years, which may have been a challenge with all of the academics, responsibilities, and the sudden freedom that accompanied them, but Nick was able to manage the balancing act. He also pursued graduate school, earning his degree in denturism. His favorite courses were dental technology. His favorite professor was Dr. Paladino.

      Always considered a “good” friend to those he knew, Nick enjoyed a broad group of acquaintances and several very close friends during his lifetime. Later in life, he became friends with John DeNicolo, Tony Favia, Tony Tommasone, Vito Ventrella, and Joe Strazzante.

       Empathic and loyal, Nick was committed to making his new family happy.

      Nick worked hard to be a good father to his children and he did his best to fulfill their needs. Nick was blessed with 5 children , Michael, Rosalia, Tony, Debbie, and Julie. Another blessing for Nick was the gift of 8 grandchildren, Rosina, Cristina, Freddie, Kristen, Danny, Jenna, Nicole, and Jayden.

      Fortunately, Nick enjoyed what he did for a living. Showing a strong work ethic, Nick worked diligently and did his best to succeed in his career. His primary occupation was a dental technician. He was employed for 50+ years as a dental technician, denturist, and business owner. Nick always sought to be a team player, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done.

      Nick enjoyed his leisure time by taking part in various hobbies. His favorite pursuits were stamp collecting, model building, gambling, gun collecting, and poker games. He was content to enjoy his favorite pastimes alone but was also willing to share his interests with others.

      Nick found pleasure in sports. In high school, Nick played soccer. Nick was also something of a sports fan and enjoyed following his favorite events whenever he had the chance to do so. Tops on his list were soccer, hockey, and boxing.

      Nick’s faith was important to him. He was a member of the Roman Catholic religion.

      Nick was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. His favorites were Doberman Pincher's. They were best friends for several years.

      When Nick’s retirement finally arrived in 1995, he was well prepared. His new life involved relocating to Wood Dale, Illinois. Even in retirement, Nick continued to stay in touch with his old friends while making plenty of new acquaintances. Nick was active in his new community and felt fulfilled with the opportunities retirement offered him.

      Nick passed away on February 2, 2010 at Alexian Brothers Medical Center due to dementia and Alzheimers. He is survived by his loving wife, children and grandchildren. Services were held at Cypress Funeral Home.

      Simply stated, Nick was a good and kind person, an individual who will for all time be remembered by his family and friends as being a caring and giving person, someone who was a vital part of their lives. Nick leaves behind him a legacy of life-long friendships and many cherished memories. Everyone whose life he touched will always remember Mr. Nick V. DeAngelis.