Nicholas G. Groudas
ONEONTA -- Nicholas G. Groudas, 82, of Oneonta, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2012, at the A.O. Fox Nursing Home, Oneonta.
He was born Dec. 19, 1929, in New York City, the son of the late George and Theresa (Chikouridou) Groudas. He lived in Greece from the age of 1 to 16 with his mother, surviving both the Greek Civil War and World War II. He then returned to New York City, where he rejoined the rest of his family.
Nicholas proudly served his country as a sergeant in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict, assigned as an interpreter. While in the Army, he was a member of the Greek-American Forces soccer team, which won the 1951 Armed Services soccer championship.
Nicholas was employed as a chef at Pilgrim State Hospital in Long Island, and later became a power truck operator for Columbia Corp. in Chatham, until his retirement in 1992. After his retirement, Nick moved to Otsego County from Chatham. He enjoyed the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. He loved to cook, play cards and root for his New York sports teams. He was an avid bridge player right up until his death. He was also a member of the Oneonta Senior Citizens.
Nick is survived by his four sons and their families, Mark and Maureen Groudas of Bolton, Mass., Paul and Lori Groudas of East Chatham, Peter and Erin Groudas of Plaistow, N.H., and David and Michelle Groudas of Brea, Calif. He is also survived by eight grandchildren; one great-grandchild; as well as several nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his daughter, Georgia Groudas Gates; two brothers, Loukas Groudas and Christopher Groudas; and one sister, Mary Peragine.
Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, at the Bookhout Funeral Home, 357 Main St., Oneonta. A private burial is planned in the Gerald B. Salomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Schuylerville.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Nicholas' memory to Catskill Area Hospice and Palliative Care, 1 Birchwood Drive, Oneonta NY 13820.
To light a candle or send an online condolence please visit www.bookhoutfuneralhome.com.
Funeral arrangements are by the Bookhout Funeral Home, Oneonta.
