Nick Vanderwall

1934 - 2011

ONEIDA - Nick Vanderwall, 77, died at his Kenwood Avenue home on Saturday, Nov. 19, after a week's illness.
Born in Sneek, Fryslan, the Netherlands, on Sept. 21, 1934, Nick was the son of Asa and Susan Eekma Vanderwall. In 1948, he emigrated with his family to Vernon, where he grew up on a dairy farm on Route 5. Nick graduated from Vernon-Verona-Sherrill Central School in 1954 and from Cornell University College of Agriculture, where he was a member of the Gamma chapter of Phi Sigma Kappa fraternity, in 1958. On Aug. 25, 1956, Nick and Rhoda (Pody) Rich were married in the Mansion House.
In his early career, Nick worked for the Oneida National Bank and Trust Co., Utica, as a farm representative. In 1966, he joined Oneida Ltd. as manager, Non-manufacturing Departments until his retirement in 1996.
In the course of his career, Nick was a member or officer of various organizations, which included: The Oneida County Rural Resources Committee, Oneida County 4H Division of the County Extension Service, NYS Bankers' Association, Oneida Area Industries, Oneida Chamber of Commerce, Mohawk Valley Greenskeepers Association, Sherrill-Kenwood Water Board, Silver City Club, Oneida Rotary Club, The Dutch Compagnie, Oneida Community Golf Club, the Board of the Sherrill-Kenwood Volunteer Fire Department, and the Lawns and Gardens Committee of the Oneida Community Mansion House. He was a founding member of the Noyes Manor Board of Directors and served for 30 years.Nick was also honored by the Oneida Chamber of Commerce as Man of the Year.
Nick's hobbies and interests revolved around sports and his daily walks throughout the neighborhood. He was an avid golfer and fixture at the Oneida Community Golf Club. As a sports enthusiast, he enjoyed watching all kinds of football, hockey and golf events. His greatest joy was spending time with his family and friends.
Nick is survived by his wife of 55 years and four children, Susan J. Kuterka (John), Jacksonville, Fla.; Robin A. Vanderwall (Daniel Strobel), Sherrill; Dr. Dirk K. Vanderwall (Dr. Allison Willoughby), Kennett Square, Pa. and Viola, Idaho; Trine L. Vanderwall (Eric Conklin), Haverford, Pa.; as well as six grandchildren, Carolyn and Laura Strobel, Morgan and Madison Vanderwall, and Kit and Tate Conklin; his sister Tina J. Vanderwall and brother Edward Vanderwall (Linda), along with dear nieces and nephews in the U.S. and the Netherlands. Nick was predeceased by his brother John.
The family extends their most sincere appreciation to Dr. Robert Burdick, Nick's friend, golf partner and physician. Sincere appreciation is also extended to his golf partners and civic friends from whom we hear again and again, "He was a great guy. We'll miss him!" Additionally, heartfelt thanks to Hospice for their help and kindness.
There will be no calling hours or services at this time. A memorial service for friends and family will take place at a later date.