Hector Michael Nicastro

Born and raised in Independence, Ohio, he joined the Army for 3 years as a short wave radio operator. Upon return, he earned a degree in Geology at Kent State University. Putting his degree to use, his best friend, Geno, helped get him a job buying refractory metals at General Electric, Willoughby Quartz.

Nick introduced Geno to his wonderful wife, Kathy, bought property next door to them and built our family home at 13019 Kenyon Drive, Chesterland, where he resided over 50 years. He soon left G.E. to then sell those same metals for an Austrian company, Plansee (Schwartzkopf Development). Although he traveled both domestically and internationally most weeks, he always made it home in time to attend his kids Friday night sporting events.

After 30+ years at Plansee, and 3 attempts, he finally retired. This allowed him to winter in Huntington Beach, California, at his son Mike's home and his "Tiltin' Hilton" guest house. Both in Ohio and California, going bummin' and getting donuts or chocolate shakes with his grandkids was a highly anticipated and quite regular occurrence. Once retired, Nick had plenty of time to pursue one of his favorite past times, going out for breakfast. After daily morning barn chores, which he did through age 90, he’d treat his pals and family to the most important meal of the day. Going grocery shopping with Gabi, being chauffeured around town to run errands with Tigs and enjoying family dinners, Nick was busy being deservedly spoiled constantly.

At 88, Nick circled back, tested for and obtained his Ham radio license. Nick made time to help friends and family build and remodel their homes. He had every cool tool and was always willing to lend a hand; a carpenter's belt fully loaded, hat on his head, pencil behind his ear, the smell of fresh cut wood, Nick on a ladder, whistling and saying his famous words, "No sweat"; he was in his element.

Nick loved the outdoors. Traveling the eastern and southern U.S. in their motorhome, camping with his family and with his uncles at Round Up Lakes were always fun vacations. Pulling up in his Winnebago, his uncles relentlessly teased, calling him a "city camper", he’d just give ‘em a smile. He knew he was their favorite!

Hunting trips at Uncle Dick’s cabin with the same buddies for 50 years and his beloved loyal companion, King Dog, were revered events. They continued to have regular lunches for years after they physically could no longer hunt. He passed along his love of hunting and fishing to his son and grandsons. Passions they continue to pursue today.

Camping out at The Great Geauga Fair and traveling the midwest, Nick supported his daughter Michelle (Tigger), and granddaughter Gabi (Peanut) at their equestrian events. He was a reliable hard worker and good gopher, known by his aliases, “Papa Nick” and, affectionately, “Trouble”.

Nick had a gift; he could talk to anyone. He’d find something in common or interesting to discuss and always made friends easily. And the stories…he could captivate an audience! Recounting his mischievous escapades with Geno and his buddies would have all of us in stitches!

Nick lived his last 8 years with Michelle, Nick and Gabi, where he was extremely well taken care of. Regular outings with Aunt Kathy would absolutely put a smile on his face, and she continued to visit him till his last day. He passed peacefully at home surrounded by family. He was a stellar dad and Papa, full of wisdom and fun, and will be greatly missed. Thanks for everything, Dad. And, as you always had the last word on our daily calls and texts…

“Sweet dreams”

“OK”

“Love you more”

Nick is survived by his 3 children, Cheryl, Michael and Michelle (Tigger) and 3 grandchildren, Christian, Ryan and Gabriella.

Predeceased by wife of 53 years, Arlene.