Nicholas J. Ferraro Sr., 92, of East Haven, passed away on June 30. He was married for 62 years to Patricia Walsh Ferraro.

Born in New Haven Sept. 15, 1929 to Antonio and Amalia Carrano Ferraro, he proudly served with the USMC in Korea and earned a Purple Heart for wounds received during the battle of “The Frozen Chosin.” After discharge, he completed his education on the GI Bill. He worked for Avco-Lycoming in the R&D Department where he received awards for innovations in the development of the M1 tank.

Nick and Pat lived at Morgan Point for 40 years. He shared his love of the water with his four children, teaching them boating and fishing skills. In his later years, they returned that love, taking him boating and fishing.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his four children and their spouses: Nick Jr. of East Haven, Maria of Branford, Cathy and Chris Spencer of Branford, and Mark and Rose Ferraro of North Branford.

Finally, after retirement from Avco, he was able to fulfill a pledge made in Korea, that if he survived, he would never be cold again. He enjoyed the next twenty winters in Naples, FL. During the warmer weather, along with his grandson Michael, he had a masonry business repairing sea walls and patios. As his grandsons grew, he put them to work during school breaks.

He leaves his beloved grandchildren: Patti, Louie, Michael and Freddie Turcio and Jessica, Jennifer, Jamie and Vinny Grillo Jr.; and six great-grandchildren.

Nick was a man of few words, quiet strength, and deep faith, who lived a long, full life surrounded by a loving family. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and the DAV.

He also leaves his brother Dr. Anthony Ferraro and his wife Judy of Orange; along with several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by siblings, Andrew, Christine and Louise.

Family and friends celebrated a Mass of Christian burial on July 6 in St. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish at the Church of St. Vincent de Paul, 80 Taylor Ave., East Haven, with Committal and full USMC military honors at East Lawn Cemetery, East Haven. All services are under the care of the Clancy-Palumbo Funeral Home (Clancy Funeral Home), 43 Kirkham Ave., East Haven.