MONTVILLE, Ohio — Nicholas Pitorak, 85, of Montville, died Dec. 30, 2010 at UH Geauga Medical Center in Claridon Township.
He was born Oct. 4, 1925 in Huntsburg Township on the family farm, the son of Harry and Katherine (Krisa) Pitorak. Nick was baptized shortly afterwards in Sts. Peter and Paul Russian Orthodox Church in Huntsburg.
During World War II, he served his country in the U.S. Navy, stationed in Florida as a mechanic on small naval crafts. After the war, Nick returned to Huntsburg where he worked on the family farm and joined the local laborers’ union.
He married Virginia Reed in 1957 and in 1958 welcomed his first child. After retirement, he started his career as Troy’s Elementary janitor in the Berkshire School District.
Nick’s true life passion was farming where he maintained and operated a grain and beef farm providing both produce and meat, which he generously gave away.
In addition, Nick supported Geauga County 4-H for 40 years working with his children and grandchildren in the Breeders and Feeders 4-H Club. Nick worked with the club at the Geauga Fair and Huntsburg Pumpkin Festival, donating both produce and time. He loved cattle, pigs, his antique tractors and his family.
His survivors are his loving wife Virginia Pitorak of 53 years; his children, Karen Teichman of Munson, Nancy Ivans of Chesterland, and Nick Pitorak of Huntsburg; seven grandchildren, his brother Steve Pitorak, of Mentor; and his sister Mary Pitorak, of Middlefield.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Katherine Pitorak; his sisters, Ann and Julia Pitorak; and his brothers, John and Mike Pitorak.
The funeral service will be held Jan. 5, 2011 at Russell Funeral Service, 15670 West High St. (Rt. 87), Middlefield. Burial will be at Middlefield Cemetery.
Contributions may be made to Montville Fire Dept., P.O. Box 98, Montville, Ohio 44064. Online condolences at www.russellfuneralservicesusa.com
