Nicholas Martin Stampalia Jr.

Mr. Stampalia was born on January 29, 1934, to Nicholas and Lydia (Ciuccoli) Stampalia in Ridgefield, CT. Nick attended Saint Michael’s High School in Union City, NJ, and was a member of the graduating class of 1952. Following his graduation, he enlisted in the Navy Reserves, serving until 1960.

Nick met his future wife Barbara while working together at the Lumber Mutual Casualty Insurance Company. Nick and Barbara exchanged vows at Saint Michael’s Church in 1953. He shared 56 loving years of marriage with his devoted wife, who sadly predeceased him in 2010.

Throughout his life Nick was a hard worker, dedicating much of his career to the transportation industry, as a member of the Teamsters Union. Nick was a truck driver at Time DC, and later a bus driver at Red and Tan Bus Lines. Nick and Barbara relocated to Keene in 1988, and he became co-owner of Henry David’s Restaurant. Dedicated to the business, Nick could be found either in the kitchen or assisting with day-to-day operations until 1996. Nick was also a taxi driver at Thomas Transportation until his retirement.

Nick was an incredibly social person, a jokester, and quite a character. Above all, he was a devoted husband and father, who throughout life always put his family first. He treasured the time he was able to spend with his family, especially family barbeques at Andrea’s. This was a time where his entire family could be together and enjoy each other's company. Nick had a very special bond with his brother-in-law Robert. Always together, they would spend quality time going about their daily routines. He was a fan of all sports, but most especially the New York Yankees. Steadfast in his faith, he was parishioner at Saint Bernard’s Church, attending Adoration, and always attending Saturday night mass.

Nick will be deeply missed by his three daughters; Andrea Galea and her husband Michael of Peterborough, NH; Rita Stampalia of Keene, NH; Donna Poirier and her husband Don of Keene, NH; two grandchildren, Caitlin Wilson and her husband Logan of Lanesborough, MA; Christopher Galea, of Peterborough, NH; as well as his beloved brother-in-law and loyal companion Robert Baldrian of Keene, NH.

A mass of Christian Burial will be held at Saint Bernard’s Church, 185 Main St. Keene, on Wednesday, March 18th at 11:30 a.m. Burial will be held privately by the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations for those who wish may be made in Mr. Stampalia’s name to the Monadnock Humane Society, 101 West Swanzey Road, Swanzey, NH 03446.