Nick State

Nick State, 84, of Stevensville, went to be with his beloved Lord and Savior on October 2, 2020, at West Woods of Bridgman. While Nick had been struggling with dementia for years, his sweet and loving personality was still able to shine through it all to the end. Nick was born July 26, 1936, to John and Georgia (Angelopolus) Stathopoulos in St. Joseph, where he lived his entire life. In 1946, his family wanted to “Americanize” their last name, and legally changed it to State. He graduated from St. Joseph High School in 1955. In 1984, he married the love of his life, Darlene Schoff in St. Joseph. In the 1960’s, Nick was the owner of Nick’s Red Garter. After the city bought the building for Urban Renewal, Nick worked in several retail stores selling fine men’s wear. He was later employed by D&W Foods for 15 years and then Martins Super Markets for 10 years. Nick was very much a people person, while working at the grocery stores, people would wait in line to have Nick bag their groceries. They were always encouraged by his kindness, sweet spirit and genuine smile. Nick loved the Lord, the Bible and serving as an usher at church. He enjoyed going to Bible Study Fellowship (BSF) for many years. Nick looked forward to going to church to worship and sing. Many knew him as the friendliest man around. Nick is survived by his loving wife of 36 years, Darlene (Schoff) State. children, Kelly (Mark) Neubauer, Mark State, Lisa (Edward) Heyn and John (Kimberly) State; mother of his children, Rinthy Cluff; one granddaughter; 8 grandsons and one great-granddaughter. Nick’s family would especially like to thank Monica Henderscott, Dr. Troy Thompson, the Staff at Harbor House Adult Day Care and West Woods of Bridgman. They all helped to make Nick’s last year’s memorable and fun. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Saturday, October 10, 2020 at 2:00PM at The Chapel, 4250 Washington Ave. St. Joseph With Pastor Phil Bubar officiating. Friends may visit with the family from 1:00PM until the time of service at the church. Memorials may be made to The Avenue Family Network -Harbor House or The Chapel Mission Fund. Those wishing to share a memory of Nick online are encouraged to do so at www.starks-menchinger.com