Nicholas “Nick” Joseph Laus, age 59, died on June 9, 2018, in his home. He was born in Lima, Peru, and immigrated to the United States at a young age, where he became a U.S. citizen. Nick graduated from Bishop McDevitt High School in 1978. He is the son of Doris Soce, and brother to Anita (Laus) Chilmaza, her husband Armando Chilmaza, and his brother, John Laus.
Nick leaves behind his beloved daughter, Chanelle Laus, who he cherished, and a loving family of nieces, nephews, aunts, cousins, and godchildren. He loved his dogs, Rocco and Bruno; they were his constant companions and could often be found patrolling tables at his many restaurants.
For more than three decades, Nick developed a reputation as a visionary in the central Pennsylvania restaurant industry, creating some of the most well-known and popular eateries. His many creations inlcude Cork & Fork, Café Fresco and Home 231, which are still amongst the most frequented dining establishments in the Harrisburg area.
Perhaps an even greater legacy than his business accomplishments, is how Nick treated people in his life. He mentored and touched many — believed in them. He often paid it forward and thought nothing of buying the groceries for everyone in line ahead of him. That was Nick. He cared so much for so many. As Chanelle has said: “He was extraordinary, loyal, and strong. He was stern but always kind. He was funny, loved hard and expected little in return. To those who he loved — he gave everything.”
Funeral Services will be held on June 15, 2018, with family greeting friends for a viewing at Neill Funeral Home, 3501 Derry Street, Harrisburg, PA 17111, from 9:00 AM -12:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:30 PM by Father Neil Sullivan at Saint Catherine Laboure Church, 4000 Derry Street, Harrisburg, PA 17111. Burial will follow at Resurrection Cemetery, 116 South Oak Grove Road, Harrisburg, PA 17112.
In lieu of flowers, Nick’s family asks that his friends pay it forward by performing a random act of kindness. Through such acts, Nick’s legacy will live on.
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