August "Barry" Nicholas

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of August “Barry” Nicholas, Sr., beloved husband, father, brother, and friend, who passed away peacefully at the age of 82 on January 2, 2025.

Born in Paterson, NJ, Barry’s life was defined by his unwavering love for his family, his passion for cars, and his appreciation for the magic of the cinema. A man of simple joys and a generous and encouraging spirit, Barry was known to all who knew him for his warm heart, quiet demeanor, and tireless work ethic. Barry lived his entire life as a child of God and in his later years strengthened his faith by drawing closer to the Lord through his word.

Barry’s family was his greatest treasure. He married his teenage sweetheart, Mary Ann, in 1964, and together they raised two children who became the center of his world. Barry’s devotion to his wife and children was unshakable. His legacy as a loving husband and father will live on in the hearts of his family forever.

Barry dedicated much of his life to help build the family sanitation business.  As an owner and operator of Nicholas Sanitation, Barry became known not only for his hard work but also his commitment to customer satisfaction, his high standards of professionalism, and his impeccably clean truck.

A true car enthusiast, Barry enjoyed all of his cars. He was a wealth of knowledge about all things automotive. He often relaxed while reading car magazines, and he spent many days at the car shows with his son.

Barry was also a lifetime lover of movies. He was always eager to discuss the latest blockbuster or share his favorites from decades past. Whether watching at home or catching a Tuesday afternoon showing at the theater, he never lost his sense of wonder for the stories that filled the screen.

Barry is predeceased by his parents Nick and Philomena; his sister, Delores; and his brothers Jimmy, Mike, and Gary.

He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Mary Ann; daughter Dawn; son Barry Jr. and his wife Andrea; brother, Raymond, and his wife Diane; nieces Nicole and Noelle; and many friends who were touched by his kindness.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, January 7, 9:00am-10:30am and a Funeral Service to follow at 10:30am  at Vander Plaat Funeral Home, 257 Godwin Avenue, Wyckoff, NJ. Entombment will follow at Calvary Cemetery, Paterson, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to either St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital or Valley Hospice in Barry’s memory.