LEOMINSTER- On the morning of October 14th, Nicola J. Gambale, 83, of Leominster, passed away at Health Alliance Leominster Hospital, following a brief illness.
He was born May 30, 1932, in Boston, son of the late Nicola and Michelina (Chiango) Gambale, and lived in East Boston for many years before moving to Littleton and then Leominster. Mr. Gambale served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict.
Mr. Gambale drove truck most of his life before working at McDonald Mechanical in Boxborough and after his retirement for Bill's Auto Parts.
A hard working man of many talents, he will be remembered for his big heart, his honesty, his love of gardening and being a proud veteran. He loved his family and friends and was quick to offer a lending hand. One contribution he was especially proud of was his volunteer effort for the paper drives with Cardinal Cushing.
He was a member of the Revere VFW and the Franco American War Veterans in Leominster.
He leaves his wife of 63 years, Phyllis A. (Brienzi) Gambale; one son, Nicholas Gambale and his wife, Julie of Upton; one daughter, Brenda Baker and her husband, Paul of Safety Harbor, FL; three grandchildren, Philomena Fritz and her husband, Patrick, Derek Baker, Daniel Baker and his wife, Melissa; as well as many great grandchildren, brothers, George, Anthony, Alphonse Gambale and sister Carmella D'Amore.; many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.
He was predeceased by his son, Allen Gambale and his siblings, Charles and Phil Gambale, Angie Scarpetta, and Jenny Diminico.
The families heartfelt thanks goes out to the staff at Health Alliance Leominster Hospital for their warm and tender care of Nicola.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, October 17, at 11:00 A. M. in St. Cecilia's Church, 180 Mechanic St., Leominster. Burial with military honors will follow in Westlawn Cemetery in Littleton.
Calling hours will precede the Mass Saturday, October 17, from 8:30-10:30 A. M. at Simard Funeral Home, 14 Walker St., Leominster.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to charity of your choice.