On Jan. 7, 2019, Elmore K. Nolte (Big Nick) of Gloucester, passed from this world into the hands of God with his family and friends at his bedside. 

He was born into America’s greatest generation on July 27, 1926 in Richmond, Virginia. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy at age 17, serving his country in WWII aboard the Destroyer, USS Frank E. Evans DD-754 in the European theater. 

After serving his country, he returned to civilian life and his favorite sport, roller-skating. Roller skating turned into a career that dominated his life. While enjoying the sport he loved, he met and married his soul mate, Barbara J. Vanderburg. They enjoyed a beautiful marriage that lasted 66 years. 

Big Nick built, opened and operated multiple roller rinks, up and down the East Coast. Finally taking total ownership of the Plaza Roller Rink in Hampton, Virginia. During the 45 years of operation of Plaza Roller Rink, he taught, guided and influenced the lives of many children and adults through his love of roller skating. 

Big Nick was preceded in death by his father, David; mother, Lorraine; brother, Durward, and sister, Madeline.

He is survived by the love of his life, Barbara Nolte; daughter and son-in-law, Debra and Mike Spicer; grandchildren, Angela and Shannon; son and daughter-in-law, Nickie and Sheila Nolte; grandchildren, Jessica, Tiffanie, Nickie and their mother Jeanene Nolte; step-grandchildren, Crystal and Cortney; son and daughter-in-law, David and Amy Nolte; grandchildren, Brittany, Ariel, Jacob, Rhiannon, Cameron, Isabella, Isaiah and Devin, and nine great-grandchildren, Taylor, Chandler, Devin, Amyiah, Caleb, Sylas, Phoenix, Benjamin and Asher.

A date and location for the “Celebration of Big Nick’s Life” will be communicated through several social media platforms as soon as possible.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers or gifts please send a donation to the Gloucester Volunteer Fire and Rescue Squad.

Andrews Funeral Home & Crematory is in charge of arrangements.