"With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Nicholas "Nick" Gervase, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and a decorated veteran. Nick was born Nicholas Angelo Gervase on October 10, 1932, in Newark, NJ, to Nicholas and Pasqualina "Lillian" (Linfante) Gervase.
Nick met the love of his life, Barbara "Bobbie" Ann Batterson, in an English class at Barringer High School in Newark, NJ. Their love blossomed, and despite the challenges of war and separation, they married on November 29, 1952. This union was blessed with five children, and their love story continued for over seven decades.
Nick enlisted in the Marine Corps the day after his 18th birthday. His service during the Korean War was marked by extraordinary bravery, particularly as a member of I Company, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division. His actions, especially at the Battle of Bunker Hill, earned him a Silver Star, a Bronze Star, and the Purple Heart with two gold stars. Promoted to Sergeant at an unprecedented pace, Nick was known as a "slick-sleeve sergeant" due to his rapid ascent in rank without the usual service time indicated by hash marks. After his distinguished military service, Nick continued his education, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Social Studies from Seton Hall University in 1959.
Nick's career in insurance began in New Jersey where he held executive roles in major companies, eventually rising to Sales VP at Constitution Life Insurance Company. Additionally, he dedicated time as a volunteer fireman.
The couple's journey took them from NJ, to PA, to IL, and finally to Scottsdale, in 1972.
Aside from his beloved wife, he leaves behind his children: Cynthia Turner of Phoenix, Barbara Gervase-Leary of Phoenix, Lisa Gervase of Cave Creek, and Andrew (Anne) Gervase of Rio Verde; grandchildren: Jason Gervase of Tucson, Pamela (Bradey) Stephens of Scottsdale, Danielle Quenzler of Tucson, and Nicole Quenzler of Cave Creek; and great-granddaughter, Stella Dancil, of Scottsdale. His sister, Josephine Fluke, of Raleigh, NC, also survives him. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Marie Drake, and son, Nicholas.
Nick will be interred at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his names to a Veteran's cause or the Arizona Humane Society. A private memorial service will be held to celebrate his life.
Nick's life is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. He will be deeply missed and eternally remembered by all who knew him.
Obituary, written by grandson, Jason Gervase:
"With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of Nicholas "Nick" Gervase, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and a decorated veteran. Nick was born Nicholas Angelo Gervase on October 10, 1932, in Newark, NJ, to Nicholas and Pasqualina "Lillian" (Linfante) Gervase.
Nick met the love of his life, Barbara "Bobbie" Ann Batterson, in an English class at Barringer High School in Newark, NJ. Their love blossomed, and despite the challenges of war and separation, they married on November 29, 1952. This union was blessed with five children, and their love story continued for over seven decades.
Nick enlisted in the Marine Corps the day after his 18th birthday. His service during the Korean War was marked by extraordinary bravery, particularly as a member of I Company, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division. His actions, especially at the Battle of Bunker Hill, earned him a Silver Star, a Bronze Star, and the Purple Heart with two gold stars. Promoted to Sergeant at an unprecedented pace, Nick was known as a "slick-sleeve sergeant" due to his rapid ascent in rank without the usual service time indicated by hash marks. After his distinguished military service, Nick continued his education, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Social Studies from Seton Hall University in 1959.
Nick's career in insurance began in New Jersey where he held executive roles in major companies, eventually rising to Sales VP at Constitution Life Insurance Company. Additionally, he dedicated time as a volunteer fireman.
The couple's journey took them from NJ, to PA, to IL, and finally to Scottsdale, in 1972.
Aside from his beloved wife, he leaves behind his children: Cynthia Turner of Phoenix, Barbara Gervase-Leary of Phoenix, Lisa Gervase of Cave Creek, and Andrew (Anne) Gervase of Rio Verde; grandchildren: Jason Gervase of Tucson, Pamela (Bradey) Stephens of Scottsdale, Danielle Quenzler of Tucson, and Nicole Quenzler of Cave Creek; and great-granddaughter, Stella Dancil, of Scottsdale. His sister, Josephine Fluke, of Raleigh, NC, also survives him. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Marie Drake, and son, Nicholas.
Nick will be interred at the National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his names to a Veteran's cause or the Arizona Humane Society. A private memorial service will be held to celebrate his life.
Nick's life is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. He will be deeply missed and eternally remembered by all who knew him.
Obituary, written by grandson, Jason Gervase:
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