Obituary of James W. Nowicki

Pattersonville - Jim Nowicki, former Albany County Legislator, passed away peacefully at home on June 8, 2012, after a long battle with malignant melanoma. Jim was a graduate of Albany College of Pharmacy, and was the owner of Colonie Village Pharmacy. He trained many pharmacy interns there, and passed along his philosophy of outstanding customer service. Upon selling the business, what he missed most was the people he had served. He was elected to the Albany County Legislature and represented the citizens of Colonie Village, actively addressing the needs and wishes of his constituents. Always accessible, he was easy to talk to. Serving the people for 10 years was a pleasure and a privilege for him. Jim had been active in many civic and church activities, including Colonie Jay Cees, Rotary, Colonie Lodge of Elks, The Italian American Community Center, and St. Clare's Church, where he was a Eucharistic Minister and member of the parish council. A long-time sponsor of Colonie Little League, Tee-ball, Girls' Softball, Babe Ruth, and Senior Babe Ruth, Jim frequently attended those games and enjoyed socializing with parents, coaches, and players. Always present for opening ceremonies, he could also be found at the All-Star games at the end of each season, even driving to the State Championship games in New Jersey. Jim enjoyed fishing with his father and friends, and bicycling with his wife and beloved daughters. With his wife and many others, he biked across New York State, following the Erie Canal Trail. He also biked the shoreline of Greece, and the trails of Minnesota, including the Root Valley. Family was of great importance to Jim, who always made time for family vacations to Wildwood, Disney World, and the National Parks. He was a proud father who coached Girls' Softball, and enjoyed attending events where his daughters performed. His presence at their graduations was a joy to him. Seeing them receiving their degrees was a highlight of his life. Jim felt blessed to have met so many wonderful people throughout his life and to have had such dear friends. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, the former Theresa (Terri) Pettograsso; his 3 cherished daughters, Dr. Michelle Bacares, Dr. Margaret Nowicki, and Professor Elizabeth Nowicki, (Esq.); his mother, Amelia; sister Delores Inzero; and brothers and sisters-in-law: Richard Inzero, Ed and Flo Springstead, Sal and Sarah Jo Pettograsso, and Ellie Wilson. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews. The family thanks all medical personnel who cared for Jim over the years, especially Dr. Robert Kelleher and staff, as well as Schenectady Hospice staff. The wake and calling hours are at the Church of St. Clare, 1947 Central Avenue, Albany, 12205 on Tuesday, June 12, 2012 from 4 to 7pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be at the Church of St. Clare at 11am on Wednesday, June 13, 2012, thence to Most Holy Redeemer Cemetery, Route 7. In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make a contribution in Jim's memory to the Hope Club of the American Cancer Society, 1 Penny Lane, Latham, NY 12110.