Nikolaos V Katsilianos

Nikolaos "Nick" V. Katsilianos

August 3, 1958 – July 21, 2025

Nikolaos V. Katsilianos, also known as "Nick" to many family and friends, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 21, 2025 surrounded by the love of his family. Born in Aigio, Greece on August 3, 1958; he immigrated to the United States at the age of twelve, where he built a life grounded in family, flavor, and friendship.

Nick was the beloved husband of Joanna and proud father of his cherished daughter, Lemonia Nicole. He was the loving brother of Anna (Hristos) and Georgia (Jay), and a dear uncle to his many nieces and nephews. He is now reunited with his late parents, Vasilios and Lemonia (née Rabavilas) Katsilianos.

A gifted chef with an undeniable passion for food, Nick was the co-owner and executive chef of the award-winning Greek restaurant Niko’s Trapezi in Long Branch, NJ. His culinary creations, especially his famous blueberry cheesecake, brought joy to countless patrons and offered a heartfelt connection to his Greek heritage.

Beyond the kitchen, Nick found joy in fishing, dancing, and playing video games—especially on his Xbox. He was an avid supporter of Panathinaikos, his favorite soccer team, and could often be found cheering them on with great enthusiasm. His laughter was infectious, often brought on by his own jokes, and his easygoing, generous spirit made him beloved by all who knew him. Nick lived to care for others, a value he expressed most fully through his cooking. Whether at home or in his restaurant, he made sure everyone felt welcomed, well-fed, and loved.

Visitation will be held on Friday, July 25, 2025 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Evangelismos Greek Orthodox Church, 661 Montgomery Street, Jersey City. A funeral mass will immediately follow at 10:00 AM. Interment will take place at Hillside Cemetery, 742 Rutherford Avenue, Lyndhurst, NJ. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Newark Beth Israel Medical Center (https://www.rwjbh.org/newark-beth-israel-medical-center/giving/give-now/) or the American Heart Association (https://www.heart.org/en/get-involved/ways-to-give) in gratitude for their dedicated care and in support of heart health research.  The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the Cardiac C4 Team at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center for their compassionate support and excellent care.