Stephen B. Nishnick, age 72, formerly of Waterford, PA passed away unexpectedly in his sleep on Thursday, October 18, 2018. Born August 3, 1946 in Pittsburgh, PA, he was a son of the late Peter (Doc) Nishnick and Wilma (Polly) Bargerstock Nishnick.
Steve grew up in Waterford and graduated from Fort LeBoeuf High School where he was a standout football athlete. He continued to play football at Edinboro University where he earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees. His achievements in football included the Wall of Fame at Fort LeBoeuf High School, the Erie All ECL Team, the All-Time Athletic Team at Edinboro University, and the All-State College Football Team.
As a career school teacher, Steve taught for 35 years in the Fort LeBoeuf School District. He was proud to return to his alma mater to teach and also coach for many years, and felt privileged to coach his two sons in football and support his daughter playing basketball — “One Heartbeat.” Whether it was coaching or teaching, his passion was getting students and athletes pushed to their fullest potential lasting a lifetime.
Married for 49 years, Steve married Alice Michael in 1969. After retiring they moved their residence to Greenhurst, NY and enjoyed boating and fishing on Chautauqua Lake, and traveling around the country in their motorhome.
In addition to Alice, Steve is survived by three children- Chris Nishnick and his wife Christa of Northeast, PA, Amy Nishnickof Cleveland, OH, and Brandon Nishnick and his wife Samantha of Raleigh, NC; six grandchildren; three siblings- Peter A. Nishnick and wife Pat of Virginia Beach, VA, Dave Nishnickand wife Donna of Erie, and Peggy Nishnick Hawthorn of Beaver, PA; and his sister-in-law Connie McClain (Dick) and brother-in-law Fred Michael (Brenda). He was preceded in death by his brother- and sister-in-law, Carl and Pat Michael.
Friends may call at Van Matre Funeral Home in Waterford on Sunday, October 21st from 3:00 until 6:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held there Monday morning at 11:00 a.m. officiated by Rev. Gary Donaldson of Asbury United Methodist Church. Burial will follow in Waterford Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Ft. LeBoeuf Foundation, PO Box 810, Waterford, PA 16441.
RIP OUR BELIVED FLB CLASSMATE. MY CONDOLENCES TO ALICE AND FAMILY
I knew Steve from our Edinboro days. Also, we both started off teaching in elementary school in Ft. LeBoeuf schools. He was a wonderful human being and I cherish the memories of those days so many years ago. My sincerest condolences to his family.
Our deepest sympathy to you Alice and your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time Steve will be greatly missed. The Blasco family
It is with a heavy heart that I send my deepest sympathy to you Alice and to your children and families. May your family and friends surround you with love and support.
What fine memories I have of Steve as a teacher colleague and Waterford citizen!. Alice, Chris, Amy and Brandon…be assured of on-going remembrance in my prayer.
With care, Sr. Therese Glass
So sad to hear of his passing. I was truly blessed to be one of his students. His love of science and ability to make it enjoyable was truly amazing. One of the best. Praying for his family that they may find peace.
I had Mr. Nishnick for science in 7th grade. He taught me some lifelong lessons that I will always cherish. My condolences to his family and friends.
Mr. Nishnick was one of those once in a lifetime teachers. He engaged his students minds. The world needs more teachers like him! So sorry to the family for your loss… he shaped so many people through his classroom… Thank you Mr. Nishnick for lighting the fire of curiosity in our young minds…
Our sympathies to Mr Nishnick and his family! May you RIP!
Alice I’m is so sorry that we can’t be with you and your family during this most stressful time. Pat and I send our condolences. A lot of people don’t know it but brother Steve was also known as “Mr. Fix It” in the family. Pete was “Hey Boy” do this and do that, but Stevie had the distinction of being the family “make it run again son”. Mom says “Doc the lawnmower won’t start” dad’s response “CALL STEVIE”. Mom “the furnace isn’t working right” dad’s response “CALL STEVIE”. This is probably not the best place to tell family stories but brother Steve played an extremely important role in the family, without his help I don’t know what my folks would have done. We are going to miss you Steve but we know that you are in a much greater place and the suffering has ended.
Mr. Nishnick was an excellent teacher and I remember him fondly. I’m so sorry for your loss.
Very sorry for the loss. He was a great teacher and great man.
🙏Prayers for strength and peace…
He was a kind and gentle man…
He will be missed by many.
By far the BEST teacher I ever had. Sending positive thoughts and prayers to him and his family. Fly high with the Angel’s!
So Sorry for your loss. He was a get teacher. And great coach. Tought. Me alot as a player. Sorry for your loss. Family and many friends! Rest in peace.
So sorry to hear of his passing. He was a wonderful teacher.
Alice and family so sorry for your loss. Steve was a great guy.
Mr Nishnick was a great teacher when he caught me
We are so sorry We will really miss him Connie and Dick
Thinking of you and your family, Alice. A new beginning for Steve….and a blessing he is
not in pain but rather resting his new home. Prayers and love to each and every one of you.