Robert Norman Nicola

NICOLA, Robert “Bob” Norman Santo, 30 August 1948 to 09 July 2019. Bob was born to Peter Santo Nicola and Rose Ruth David, and the younger brother of Paul John, of Blue Island, IL, where he lived most of his life. Bob was a multi-sport athlete at Mendel High School, a three time state wrestling champ, and attended Lewis University. Bob was a Veteran of the Vietnam conflict (July 1969 to July 1971), and last served the 1st Armored team as Sergeant for the 1st Squadron - 1st Cavalry (1/1 CAV). He received two Purple Hearts, and was awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge. Bob spent 25 years working at AT&T in Oakbrook, later owned his own business, was a handyman, an avid fisherman and outdoorsman, as well as a movie, war, and history buff - that was exceptionally fond of braciole, sausage pizza, and burgers. He is survived by his son, Jeffrey, and daughter-in-law Lucia Kulhavy; his daughter Jolie Nean (Nicola) Fleming, and son-in-law Matt Fleming; four granddaughters: Campbell, Neana, Casey, and Alex; one grandson, Cole; many nieces and nephews; and, his long-time companion Michelle Lee. A memorial will be held on 03 August 2019 at Ridge Country Club at11 a.m., and will be followed by a luncheon. The memorial will be led by his children, and there will be an open microphone for others to share their memories of Bob. Bob is forever honored at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery Sec C7-51 Grave B 43. Arrangements entrusted to Chicagoland Cremation Options of Schiller Park, Illinois.