West Orange Rotary Loses Beloved Member Nicholas R. Vecchio

When I joined the West Orange Rotary Club in 1998, my sponsor, Dr. Bill Nadelberg, pointed to Nicholas R. Vecchio and told me "That's Mr. Rotary." He wasn't kidding. When anybody had a question about Rotary rules and regulations, history and lore, it was Nick they would go to.

Nick became a member of the Club in 1954, serving in many different positions as well as President from 1964-1965. He was an active member of the club for his entire 57 years in Rotary having accumulated 46 years of perfect attendence. Over the years Nick received numerous Club and District awards as well as many Paul Harris Fellow distinctions for service to Rotary.

In the years that I was fortunate to be his fellow Rotarian and friend, Nick continued to be a vital part of the Club's daily functioning. I, as well as many other members, considered Nick to be a mentor and role model. His zest for life and productive work was infectious. He showed me that age was really just a number and that continuous learning and staying active was a life-long pursuit. I loved his sense of humor and laughter, his devotion to his family, his love of his fellow Rotarians, especially his oldest and closest friend, Don Horn, who he would tease mercilessly but defend fiercely. And I loved him like a father. We all did.

Nick, "Dio Sia Con Te Mio Amigo"

God Be With You My Friend

Dr. Dorie Cappiello

Past President

The Rotary Club of West Orange