On Tuesday, December 14, 2010, Nick Nicastro passed away after a long and worthy battle with lung cancer.

Nick was born on July 10, 1934 in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, to Italian immigrants. At age 18, he joined the United States Air Force and traveled the world. While stationed in Aviano, Italy, he met the love of his life, Clara, and married her on September 1, 1963. Together, they returned to the United States with their two children, Paul and Monica, and settled in Lompoc in 1972. Before retiring from the Air Force, Nick proudly served in Vietnam from 1969-1970. Upon retiring from the Air Force, he worked at Percision Measuring Electronic Laboratories (PMEL) on VAFB for twenty years.

Nick loved life... and he loved Clara's food. He was happiest when sitting at a table laden with her chicken cacciotre, lasagna, red wine, and a chocolate dessert. An experienced fisherman, Nick spent many years fishing the Gaviota coastline and catching mussels/clams at VAFB beaches. Also an avid reader, Nick was always finding a new book and liked to discuss politics and history. As a sports buff, he loved baseball and was a lifelong New York Yankees fan. He also enjoyed gardening and grew his own herbs and vegetables for Clara's fabulous dishes. During his later years, Nick developed an interest in playing poker at the Chumash Casino...and made many friends at the tables.

He is survived by his wife of 47 years Clara, son Paul; daughter Monica; grandchildren Kris, Anthony, Easton, Brandon, Seth, and Dillon; and great grandson Dylan. He is preceded in death by his parents Thomas and Nomina Nicastro and his brother Thomas (Junior).

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a contribution may do so in Nick's name to Mid-County Hematology & Oncology 1201 E Ocean Ave Suite B Lompoc, CA 93436.

A vigil will be held at the Starbuck-Lind Mortuary at 4 p.m. Sunday, December 19.