Nicholas Rerecich, 87

Nicholas “Nick” M. Rerecich, a lifelong resident of Bainbridge Island, died on Dec. 15 at home. He was 87.

He was born on Bainbridge in 1921 to Anton and Maria Rerecich, attending grade school on the island and graduating from Bainbridge High School in 1939.

After graduation, he worked as an apprentice cabinetmaker in Seattle until he enlisted in the U.S. Navy during World War II.

During the war, he served as chief electrician aboard a naval destroyer that participated in the Normandy invasion. After returning from the war, Nick married Jean Swihart in 1946; they made their home together on Bainbridge until her death in 1971. They had one daughter, Linda Coultas Richards.

In 1974, Nick married Barbara Owyen; they continued to live on Bainbridge in their home on Eagle Harbor Drive. He was proud of his Croatian heritage; his family operated a commercial fishing vessel, The Liberty, out of Eagle Harbor for many years as a part of the Croatian Fleet. He fished aboard The Liberty in both Alaska and the Puget Sound during his earlier years.

Nick always enjoyed woodworking and started his own construction company, Bainbridge Better Builders, one of the first on Bainbridge Island. He operated the company for over 50 years and constructed many Bainbridge Island commercial buildings and custom homes. He was a member of The Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of American Union for over 65 years.

Nick also enjoyed the sea and sailed much of the northern hemisphere including Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico and the Panama Canal.

He was also an avid fisherman throughout his life. In fact, he was proud of taking third place in the local salmon derby just three weeks ago.

Nick was preceded in death by his first wife Jean; and his brothers, Tony, George and Dominick. He is survived by his wife, Barbara, of Bainbridge Island; daughter Linda Coultas-Richards (Guy Richards); sister Carmen Berry of Bainbridge Island; grandchildren Alec Coultas (Brie) and Shannon Jacobson (Eric); great-grandchildren Haley and Emma Coultas and Finnley and Scout Jacobson. There are also many other loving family and friends.

A visitation and Recitation of the Rosary were held yesterday at St. Cecilia Catholic Church. The Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 10 a.m. today, also at St. Cecilia Catholic Church. Interment will take place at Kane Cemetery on Bainbridge. A reception will follow the graveside service at the church, Conger Hall.

Memorial contributions can be made to a charity of choice.

Arrangements are by Cook Family Funeral Home. An online guest book is at www.cookfamilyfuneralhome.com.