Henry Nicoletti

A Tribute to a Life Well Lived

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Henry “Hank” William Nicoletti, affectionately known by many as “Hammer.” His presence radiated warmth, kindness, and a spirit that touched countless lives. While words can scarcely capture the depth of our sorrow, we gather in love and remembrance of a remarkable life—so well lived and so dearly cherished.

Born on July 15, 1946, in Worcester, Massachusetts, Hank spent his boyhood embracing simple joys—fishing, swimming, and picking blueberries. At age eight, he discovered a lifelong passion for golf, hitting the course with his father and brother Bobby. Together, they found excitement and opportunity as caddies, assisting golf legends such as Patty Berg and Babe Didrikson Zaharias.

Hank’s academic journey was equally impressive. In both high school and college, he excelled as a dedicated student, actively participating in the Debate Club, National Honor Society, student government, and competitive golf teams—winning the college golf championship at Worcester State.

After earning his Bachelor's Degree in Education and obtaining his teaching credential, Hank followed Bobby to California during a teacher shortage. He began his career at Byrd Junior High School, where he formed lifelong friendships. He later transitioned to Granada Hills High School, where he spent the majority of his career and left a lasting legacy among students and colleagues. While working full-time, he earned a Master's Degree in Educational Administration and served as an administrator.

Along the way, Hank met and married MaryAnn. Together they built a loving family with children Robyn, Andrew, and Sean. Life was filled with joyful Saturdays spent golfing with close friends and lively poolside gatherings with neighbors.

He was also a proud member of the Santa Clarita Boat and Ski Club, where he taught all three children the art of water skiing, camping, and working together as a team. These adventures helped define the spirit of family togetherness that marked the Nicoletti home.

After 35 years of dedicated service in the LA Unified School District, Hank retired to San Diego, where he and MaryAnn embraced their golden years with boundless joy—traveling, cruising, golfing, and entertaining their beloved grandchildren. In 2019, they relocated to West Palm Beach, Florida, where they made new friends and enjoyed golf, pickleball, and cheerful happy hours. They recently celebrated 50 years of marriage and Hank’s 79th birthday.

Hank leaves behind a legacy of compassion, resilience, and unwavering devotion to those he loved. He is survived by his devoted wife of 50 years, MaryAnn; his sister, Brenda Usher, and nephew Tony Usher; his daughter, Robyn Sohne, and son-in-law, Eric Sohne; his son, Andrew Nicoletti, and daughter-in-law, Sheyla Olivera; and his stepson, Sean Scully. He also leaves

behind seven cherished grandchildren—Ryan (and his wife Madison), Jake, Carol, Marco, Mia, and Gianna—and one beloved great-grandson, Maverick.

As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the beautiful memories he gifted us—the laughter, the wisdom, and the love that will echo in our hearts forever.