Nicholas J. Ferrara

Although Nick’s life was cut short, he had a lasting impact on countless individuals. Born in Jeannette, Pennsylvania, on July 10, 1966, Nick grew up in Gettysburg. After graduating from Gettysburg High School, Nick attended Penn State University, graduating in 1990.

Throughout his life, Nick worked to help and serve other people. After college, he served two years with the Peace Corps building rain water jars to provide drinking water for rural Kenyans. He then returned to the states to work for Penn State University in their Office of Development. In 2000, Nick moved to Texas to serve as a development officer for The University of Texas where he worked with many of the University’s top donors. It was here that he met the love of his life, Mai Tran, who he married in 2006.

Nick had an infectious laugh and was passionate about everything in his life – travel, history, politics, college football, meeting new people, and his work with universities. More than anything, Nick was passionate about his family. He loved coming home to Mai and Max and his day centered around them. He loved Max dearly, playing with him every day and telling everyone he knew how much he loved his family. And, he was so excited to meet and share his love with his second child who is expected to arrive in June 2011.

In his professional life, Nick helped Penn State and UT raise support for student scholarships, faculty research, buildings, and much more -- an impact which will continue long after Nick’s passing. He also devoted much time and energy to other causes including soup kitchens, Big Brothers Big Sisters, St. Louise house, and serving on the board of Vin Care Services of Austin.

Nick is survived by his wife Mai, son Max, parents Leonard and Marie Elaine Ferrara of Gettysburg PA, sister Gina Ikenberry and her husband John and their children Maya, Sam, and Ben of State College, PA, sister Jaime Ferrara of Boulder CO, and many others from both the Ferrara and Tran families.

A viewing will be held Sunday, December 26, at 7 pm at Weed-Corley-Fish Funeral Home at 3125 North Lamar Boulevard. The funeral service will be held Monday, December 27, at 10 am at St. Austin’s Catholic Church at 2026 Guadalupe Street.

Memorial contributions can be sent to Vin Care Services of Austin or a soon to be created discretionary fund to enrich the lives of Nick and Mai’s children. For more details on the fund, contact Greg and Anh Thomas at [email protected].

Nick, yours was truly a life well lived, touching so many people. We cherish our memories of you and will love you forever.