Leona Evelyn Nikolis

Leona Evelyn Nikolis, 90 passed away Saturday evening July 8, 2017 at Meadow Wind Health Care Center in Massillon due to declining health. Leona was born on December 22, 1926 in Navarre, Ohio to the late Ruth and Sherman Hawk. She graduated from Massillon Washington High School and worked for a time at the Massillon State Hospital before meeting and marrying the love of her life, Peter Nikolis. They were married for 56 years when Pete’s death separated them in 2005. Leona and Pete had one child; their son Nick. Leona was a gentle, kind, loving soul who always had a smile for everyone. She loved being a home maker, raising Nick and spending time with friends and family. She and Pete were especially close to and enjoyed many good times with their dear friends Jack (also deceased) and Mary Longheier. Mary remained close with visits to Leona each week. Leona was also preceded in death by sisters Marie and Ann. Leona will be greatly missed by her son and daughter-in-law, Nick and Connie Nikolis. Leona also leaves behind sisters-in-law Strina Nikolis and Katie Halco and many nieces and nephews. Nick and Connie would like to give special Thanks to the loving, caring staff at Meadow Winds and especially Jill, Melissa, Paul, Jackie and Claudia. Leona enjoyed her last years and told everyone that she was “very well taken care of” at Meadow Wind. In addition, Thanks to all the special people at Great Lakes Caring Hospice who helped so much the last few weeks. And finally, Thanks to Leona’s special friend Stacy Guspyt for helping Leona look and feel good. A Celebration of Leona’s life will be held on Wednesday, July 12, 2017 at 11 a.m. at the Paquelet Funeral Home. Fr. Raymond Paul, Officiating. Interment will follow at Massillon Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Tuesday from 6-8 p.m. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Vincent DePaul Society. Paquelet Funeral Home & Crematory (330) 833-3222