Dr. Nicholas S. Bonarrigo

Dr. Nicholas Salvatore Bonarrigo, 84, a lifelong area resident, passed away peacefully on Thursday evening, March 28, 2024, at Valley Health Services, Herkimer.  He had the love and support of his family at the time of his passing.

 Dr. Bonarrigo was born on February 1,1940 in Utica, son of the late Stephen V. and Rose M. (Pandolfo) Bonarrigo and was a graduate of Proctor High School. Nick was a proud United States Veteran having served his country with the US Navy.  He enlisted in 1957 and was honorably discharged in 1963, 6 years of dedicated service.  He was Commanding Officer on the USS Jack W. Wilke and the recipient of the Battle Efficiency Award, receiving a letter of commendation on August 17, 1959, which was the result of his outstanding readiness and efficiency. Dr. Nick after serving his country attended and graduated from Albany College of Pharmacy.  Later in life, he continued his education, receiving his Doctorate Degree from the University of Illinois. 

As he entered his professional life, Dr. Nick excelled as a pharmacist and for most of his career worked at Mohawk Valley General Hospital, Ilion.  He also held employment with Owen Health Care of Rome Memorial Hospital, served as a Medical Science Manager for several major Pharmaceutical Companies, as well as the New York State Prison Facilities.

Dr. Nick had a great personality.  He had a great passion for being a pharmacist and gave his absolute all in his career and was always respected by his patients and colleagues.  He fostered many relationships which were important to him both personally and professionally.  In his spare time, Dr. Nick enjoyed bowling, especially with Thurston’s Bowling League in Frankfort, and was a member of the Albany College of Pharmacy Alumni Association and Ilion’s Fish and Game Club. He enjoyed keeping up with medical journals and attending monthly Grand Rounds meetings at St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center.  Nick was an avid sportsman and loved hunting, fishing, archery, and skeet shooting.  The New York Yankees were his #1 Team!!

Nick is survived by his two children and their spouses, Lisa Enea and husband Harry of Frankfort and Nick Bonarrigo and wife Kim of Mooresville, North Carolina; his cherished granddaughter, Nicole Seaver; his sister, Gerri Meola and husband Frank and nephews, Frank and Ken Meola.  He also survived by a special aunt, Yolanda Jones, along with several remaining family members throughout the Mohawk Valley.

In respecting Dr. Bonarrigo’s prearranged wishes, there are no calling hours.  Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to a graveside service commencing at 11 am on Friday, June 14, 2024, at St. Agnes Cemetery, Utica with the Rev. Francis R. Vivacqua, officiating.  The US Navy will offer military honors. 

Nick’s family would like to thank the staff of Valley Health Services for their concern.  Also, a heartfelt thank you is extended to the caring staff members of Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc., especially Ashley and Anne for the solace and comfort they offered.  In recognition for the special care given, kindly consider and send memorial offerings to Hospice and Palliative Care, Inc.4277 Middle Settlement Rd., New Hartford, NY 13413.