Nicholas Gillotti, 91, passed away February 2, 2026 in Geneva, N.Y.
Family and friends may attend a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, February17, at St. Francis Church in Geneva. Entombment will follow in St. Mary's cemetery.
Nick was born November 18, 1934 in Geneva, N.Y. and was the son of the late Anthony and Lillian (Braccio) Gillotti.
He graduated from DeSales High School in 1952, where he was known for an unforgettable 88-yard defensive run-a moment so memorable that a dear classmate recently recalled it to him.
After high school, Nick worked for the Market Basket Co. in Geneva and later began a long career with McCurdy & Co., working in the Geneva and Victor locations where he was a manager in the men's departments. Years later he worked in sales at the Furniture & Carpet Showplace in Newark. Eventually retiring, though not for long, he took a job with Enterprise Car Rental, a perfect job for him as he loved to "shoot the breeze" with anyone and everyone as he drove them. He finally, officially retired at the age of 80.
Nick served on the City of Geneva Zoning Board for more than 20 years, his tenure culminating in the designation of June 2, 2021, as "Nick Gillotti Day" in recognition of his dedicated service.
Nick was also very devoted to his faith. From his early days as an altar boy to his decades spent as a lector, and as a member of the choir until he was 85, he took pride in serving his parish.
Becoming a grampa was perhaps the job he enjoyed the most. For as long as he was able he never missed a chance to watch his grandsons in their school activities and sporting events, often arriving an hour early to get the best parking spot along the first base line. He cheered them on under his big umbrella in the hot sun or the cold rain.
Nick will be remembered for his incredible voice. In addition to singing for the church, he had a love of Barbershop and sang with local groups and quartets for many years, often traveling to competitions. He was part of a local group called the Song Makers who put out an album in the 1970's and he enjoyed performing in the hospital follies, which is where he met his wife, Dawn.
Nick was predeceased by his loving wife of 56 years, Dawn (MacDonald) Gillotti in 2024 and his brother-in-law John Greco. He is survived by his daughter Nicole (Jeff) Trickler and son Jason Gillotti of Geneva; grandsons Cooper and Nicholas Trickler; sister Joann Greco; niece Michele (Chet) O'Brien and nephew Jeff Greco; great nieces Giovanna (Tyler) Brooks, Hannah (Austin Avanzato) Greco, Paige and Danielle O'Brien; great-great niece and nephew Lucy and Jordan Brooks; aunt Stella Braccio, and many, many cousins.
The family would like to thank Diana Modera, Pam Fenik and Karen Picchi for their excellent care and friendship over the last couple of years, and also the staff at Geneva Living Center South.
In recognition of Nick's devotion to the church, we ask that in lieu of flowers a donation be made in his memory to Our Lady of Peace Parish at 130 Exchange St. Geneva, N.Y. 14456.
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