Nicholas Klaras

Nick E. Klaras of Lock Haven Pennsylvania was born as Nikolaos Elias Klarevas in Karkinagri, Ikaria, Greece on November 3, 1926 and died at the age of 98 less than 3 weeks short of his 99th birthday. He had been residing at St. Michaels Home in New York City for the last three years where he made new friends and had a satisfying social life, while able to visit with his brother and other family members close by. The home was supported by the Greek Orthodox Church so he was able to attend Orthodox service regularly on site with other Greek residents there.
Nick was a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, great grandfather, and godfather to his family and leaves behind fond memories of service to his community, love for his Greek Orthodox faith, and caring for others both in Lock Haven and his home in Greece which was evidenced by his various philanthropic contributions and most of all with time he gave helping others.
He was preceded in death by his parents Elias and Vasiliki Klarevas of Ikaria, Greece, his wife Viola, and his son Louis N. Klaras. He was one of three brothers and five sisters. All but one brother, preceded him in death, as well. He is survived by his brother John Klarevas (Olympia), his nephews Louis John (Anna) Klarevas, Jerry Klarevas, Louis James Klarevas of NYC and Steven James Klarevas of Virginia. Also, he is survived by his nephew Tony Tsamoudakis, of MD and several nieces and nephews. In addition, surviving are his granddaughter Ariel Heivly (Michael) of Jersey Shore, grandson Nick Klaras, his great grandchildren, and special cousins Louis F. Klaras and Coleen Klaras Karakitsos, as well as, many other family members.
Nick immigrated to Lock Haven from Greece in the late 1950's. He left the Greek Merchant Marines to work in New York for a few years, then moved to Lock Haven and worked briefly alongside of his uncle Frank Klaras (Helen) at the Texas Lunch until his uncle Frank and his partner James Williams retired. Then he and new partner Peter Anastos bought the restaurant together. He worked there until his own retirement in 1991.
However, Nick continued to cook and provide food for the community as a member of the Elks Club, the Moose Club, a life member of the Crystal Springs Hunting Club, and a member and cook in The Clinton County Police Camp Cadet program, as well as, several other organizations, including AHEPA (American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association). Although cooking for friends and family were his joy, he was also an avid outdoorsman and loved hunting and fishing. His house sported several deer heads and mounted fish. When he could no longer hunt due to his age and medical limitations, he continued to visit the hunting camp to cook their game and socialize. He also enjoyed visits to the casinos with friends. His humor and good nature were his hallmark. Nick's other favorite hobby included gardening and maintaining his yard filled with flowering shrubs, vegetables and grapevines. He was a lovely man and will be greatly missed.
Because Nick recently resided in New York, the family there will provide a viewing and Trisagion service at Riverdale Funeral Home, 5044 Broadway, New York, N.Y. 10034. The hours are from 11-1pm on Friday, October 10, 2025 presided by Father Vasilios Louros. Nick's funeral will be conducted next week Wednesday October 15, 2025 in Lock Haven at the Helt Funeral Home, 232 Hogan Blvd., Mill Hall, Pennsylvania, 17751 where the funeral will be held, preceded by a short viewing at 12 o'clock followed by the Greek Orthodox service at 12:30 conducted by Father Michael Varvarelis and then interment at Highland Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in the name of Nick Klaras to the charity of your choice.