ZAZZERA, Nicholas Joseph

Nicholas Joseph Zazzera was a simple man who was simply the best friend many of us ever had. Born February 26th, 1930 Pennsylvania, the son of James and Mary Zazzera, he carried their kindness and generosity into his school life, his work, and business endeavors. Nick, his sister Benadette, and his brother Anthony (who preceded him in death) together built a loving family through the early death of their father and the illness and death of their mother. One of the joys of Nick's life was summer vacation at Newton Lake with his family. Yet one day these vacations took on a new meaning, because there he had the opportunity to meet Esther Blaum, who he fell deeply in love with, and who became his wife. Their 47 years of celebration, hard work, and deep commitment. Their life together on earth ended last year as Nick lovingly cared for months of illness and gently released her from life. Together Nick and Esther had four children; James Zazzera, Joseph Zazzera, Doris Mary Zazzera (who preceded both of them in Nicholas Zazzera Jr. Nick delighted in and appreciated every one of these children and their partners; Sharlene Zazzera, Karen Zazzera, and Jeff Sullivan. He appreciated all the many moments he had with his grandchildren: Anna, Aaron, and Elizabeth, the children of James and Sharlene Zazzera; and Nicole Clark, Chrissy, and Corrie, the children of Joseph Zazzera and Cheryl Kellett; and his great grandson, Edward Clark. Through his life, Nick Zazzera was known for his hard work. Yet his work was also his joy, because it brought him close to people. Whether he was helping customers at his grocery store, serving members at Paradise Valley Country Club, lifting boxes alongside co-workers at Fleming Foods, planning a party for a friend, or selling tennis balls to buyers at Park & Swap - what was important to him was the people he encountered. Without fanfare or fuss Nick showed genuine acceptance to all. His life ended far too quickly for those of us who loved him. Cared for by his sister-in-law Sandra Zazzera and his sons, Nick died on December 12, 2002. Our hearts are broken because we do not want to let go of the kindness and love of this friend, brother, and father. Nick will be missed. A memorial service will be held at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 3801 E. Greenway Road, Phoenix, Arizona 85032, on Wednesday, December 18th at 2:00pm. Donations in Nick's name may be made to Hospice of the Valley, Eckstein Center, 9494 E. Becker Lane, Scottsdale, Arizona, 85260. Published in the Arizona Republic on 12/15/2002.