Thursday, July 4, 2024 | St. Lawrence County, NY
MASSENA -- Albert N. “Al” Nicola, age 82, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, at the Massena Rehabilitation & Nursing Facility with his loving family by his side.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, May 31, 2024, from 3:00 – 7:00 pm at the Phillips Memorial Home.
A Funeral Mass will be held 10:30am Saturday, June 1, 2024, at Sacred Heart Church with rev. Mark Reilly officiating immediately followed by full military honors.
Al was born to the late Albert A. and Hazel (Blair) Nicola in Massena on August 1, 1941.
He attended Massena School and graduated from Massena High School in 1959. He continued his education at the Pennsylvania Military College in Chester, PA and served his country proudly in the 101st Airborne.
After his patriotic duty, Al returned back to his passion of learning and obtained his Master’s degree in education from Potsdam State College in 1963.
He married Yvonne Gelabert in Memphis, TN on February 27, 1965.
He taught at Massena Central High School for the majority of his career where he was involved in sports as well as academic pursues. He coached many successful JV and Varsity wrestling and football teams for the Massena Red Raiders.
His participation didn’t stop on the field, as he was active in golf for many years far into his retirement.
Al also served on local governmental bodies for the Village and Town of Massena as a board member and Trustee. He belonged to the Massena Elks Lodge No. 1702, the Massena American Legion Post No. 79 and belonged to the Massena Country Club. He was an active participant at the Massena Italian American Club and in his past time could be seen around town walking as he gave waves to past students and players alike.
Al is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 60 years, Yvonne and his daughter, Dianne Nicola of Liverpool, NY. He is also survived by a niece, Jessica Sharpe and husband, Eugene of Wolcott, NY and their children, Steven and Lauren; along with a sister in-law, Maryanne Nicola of Massena.
In addition to his parents, Al was predeceased by a brother, Joel D. Nicola and a sister in infancy, Constance Nicola.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be shared with Italian American Club in his memory, PO Box 12, Massena, NY 13662
Family and friends are encouraged to share memorial trees, stories, photos and condolences online, by visiting www.PhillipsMemorial.com.
