Nicholas Emil Petrarca

Nicholas Emil Petrarca was a humble man with a generous heart. His work ethic made him a success in business and his caring nature made him a tremendous husband, father, friend, and son. His love for his children was only superseded by his love for his wife. His family always came first.

He was the son of Nicholas Anthony Petrarca and Catherine Antonucci Petrarca. He was born on August 30, 1966 in Amityville, New York. He had three sisters, Christine, Lauren, and Joyce.

He graduated from Chaminade High School in 1984. In addition to academics, Nicholas was captain of the golf team, swam the freestyle, and was on the wrestling team. He worked many part-time jobs throughout high school. He earned his Bachelors of Arts degree in Economics and Political Science from Wake Forest University in 1988. While not in the classroom, Nicholas was a member of Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity, played a lot of golf, and was on the Cheerleading Squad.

Nicholas married Laura Beth Williams in October of 1993 in Little Rock, Arkansas at the Cathedral of Saint Andrew. They honeymooned at Gaton's White River Resort, the place where they first met. Over the next 27 years, they were blessed with six children: Nicholas, Elaine, Alexander, Rachael, Camille, and Matthew. Nothing made Nicholas happier than spending time together as a family and watching his children play sports. He attended as many of their hockey games, flag football games, volleyball games, swim meets, cross country meets, baseball games, and softball games as possible.

Nicholas was employed for over 23 years by Raymond James & Associates as a Fixed Income Trader. Those who worked with him over the years knew of his dedication to early mornings, strong work ethic, and love for the snack room in Tower 2.

Nicholas enjoyed his leisure time by taking part in various hobbies. His favorite pursuits were watching his all of his children play sports, spending time with his family, and cheering on the Tampa Bay Lightning. Nicholas enjoyed traveling cross country in his RV. Memorable vacations included Woodloch Pines Family Reunion, Steamboat Springs RV trip, kayaking in the Everglades, and hiking the Appalachian Trail with his son Alex. Nicholas’s faith was also important to him. He was a member of Saint Catherine's Catholic Church and a member of the Knights of Columbus.

Nicholas is survived by his wife, Laura Williams Petrarca, and his children, Nicholas Petrarca, Elaine Petrarca, Alex Petrarca, Rachael Petrarca, Camille Petrarca, and Matthew Petrarca. In addition to his wife and children, Nicholas is survived by his father and mother, Nicholas Anthony Petrarca and Catherine Antonucci, as well as his sisters Christine (Timothy) Keogh, Lauren (Gregory) Francisco, and Joyce (Thomas) Woram. Nicholas's final resting place is Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Clearwater, Florida.

Nicholas touched many lives through his kindness and love. He lived each day loving his wife, dedicated to his family and supporting his children’s dreams. One’s life can often be measured by the memories they leave in the minds and hearts of others. Those who knew Nicholas were blessed with his friendship, compassion and love. His presence will remain with us through our memories of the times we shared. He will be truly missed.

Donations in his memory may be made to National Right to Life, Society of St. Vincent De Paul (any local chapter), and The Carry Esposito Memorial Hockey Fund c/o The Community Foundation of Tampa Bay.