Nick Petnick

Nick (Lester) Petnick A lover and creator of bad puns and enigmatic emails, Nick (Lester) Petnick enjoyed a good scotch and a fine cigar. He died Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2011. Born in Altoona, in 1947, he was the son of Charles and Marie Louise Petnick. He married Lynn Finkel in 1976. Nick was the loving father of Lee and Laura March, father-in-law, of Laura Beckley, and grandfather of Reed and William. Also surviving are sisters Barbara Rossano and her husband, Robert, and Charlene Rosen and her husband, Daniel. Nick was a 1965 graduate of Tabor Academy. He graduated from Franklin & Marshall College in 1969, and received an MBA from Penn State University in 1994. Proprietor of Mr. Charles Shop for twenty-three years, Nick was known for his dapper appearance. He began his graduate education while working, but was diagnosed with leukemia before finishing his degree. Although debilitated by his treatment, he completed an MBA. His physical limitations had a silver lining; he was always available to chat, comfort, joke, and philosophize with Lee and Laura. Nick returned to his life-long passion of education and taught at State High. His guide dog and friend Omega was a faithful navigator (unless distracted by a treat). Nick read voraciously through the help of the Carnegie Library and the Jewish Braille Institute Talking Books. Three mornings a week he swam laps at the Penn State Natatorium. Omega would wait patiently and lick his face at the turn. Nick was active in many community events and charities. He particularly enjoyed working with two local organizations, the Sight-Loss Support Group and People Centre'D on Diabetes. Please join his family and friends at a memorial service at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 8, 2012, at Congregation Brit Shalom in State College. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Congregation Brit Shalom at 620 E. Hamilton Avenue, State College, PA 16801 or a local charity of your choice that will continue his legacy. His humor, courage, and wisdom are deeply missed.