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Nick E. Klaras

Nick E. Klaras

Nick E. Klaras, of Lock Haven, Pa., was born as Nikolaos Elias Klarevas, in Karkinagri, Ikaria, Greece, on Nov. 3, 1926, and died at the age of 98 less than three weeks short of his 99th birthday.

He had been residing at St. Michael’s Home in New York City for the last three years, where he made new friends and had a satisfying social life, while able to visit with his brother and other family members close by. The home was supported by the Greek Orthodox Church so he was able to attend Orthodox service regularly on site with other Greek residents there.

Nick was a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, great-grandfather and godfather to his family. He leaves behind fond memories of service to his community, love for his Greek Orthodox faith and caring for others both in Lock Haven and his home in Greece, which was evidenced by his various philanthropic contributions, and, most of all, with time he gave helping others.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Elias and Vasiliki Klarevas, of Ikaria, Greece; his wife, Viola; and his son, Louis N. Klaras.

He was one of three brothers and five sisters. All but one brother, preceded him in death, as well.

He is survived by his brother, John Klarevas (Olympia); his nephews, Louis John (Anna) Klarevas, Jerry Klarevas and Louis James Klarevas, of NYC, and Steven James Klarevas, of Virginia. He is also survived by his nephew, Tony Tsamoudakis, of Maryland; and several nieces and nephews; his granddaughter, Ariel Heivly (Michael), of Jersey Shore; a grandson, Nick Klaras; his great-grandchildren; and special cousins, Louis F. Klaras and Coleen Klaras Karakitsos; as well as many other family members.

Nick immigrated to Lock Haven from Greece in the late 1950’s. He left the Greek Merchant Marines to work in New York for a few years, then moved to Lock Haven and worked briefly alongside of his uncle, Frank Klaras (Helen), at the Texas Lunch until his uncle Frank and his partner, James Williams, retired.

Afterward, he and new partner, Peter Anastos, bought the restaurant together. He worked there until his own retirement in 1991.

Nick continued to cook and provide food for the community as a member of the Elks Club, the Moose Club, as a life member of the Crystal Springs Hunting Club and as a member and cook in The Clinton County Police Camp Cadet program, as well as several other organizations, including AHEPA (American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association).

Although cooking for friends and family were his joy, he was also an avid outdoorsman and loved hunting and fishing. His house sported several deer heads and mounted fish. When he could no longer hunt due to his age and medical limitations, he continued to visit the hunting camp to cook their game and socialize. He also enjoyed visits to the casinos with friends. His humor and good nature were his hallmark.

Nick’s other favorite hobbies included gardening and maintaining his yard filled with flowering shrubs, vegetables and grapevines.

He was a lovely man and will be greatly missed.

Nick’s funeral will be held Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2025, at the Helt Funeral Chapel, 232 Hogan Blvd., Mill Hall, with the Greek Orthodox service at 12:30 p.m. being conducted by Father Michael Varvarelis.

A short viewing will begin at 12 p.m. before the service. Interment will follow at Highland Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in the name of Nick Klaras to the charity of your choice.

Online condolences can be sent to MaxwellHelt.com.