Nick Elias Papalambros, 61, of Westville, Indiana passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Wednesday, April 20, 2022. He was the eldest son, born March 6, 1961 in Hammond, Indiana to Elias, from Greece, & Dorothy (Rogers) Papalambros and graduated from Highland High School in 1979. Nick made his career with Munster Steel for 35 years in their maintenance division, until his retirement due to illness. It was with great honor that he also served as a union representative where he fought for the rights of the men he worked with. He was proud to serve as Business Advisor and Treasurer of Shopmen’s Local #473 of the International Association of Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing Iron Workers. Nick was an avid hunter and fisherman, embracing every season and species. He also had a love for baseball and coached his son through Little League and High School. Nick was a fighter He battled cancer bravely for 12 years, not complaining along the way. Nick was truly a selfless man who made sure to put the needs of his family and friends above his own. He loved Tammy and his grandkids dearly and always made time to call his mother in Mississippi to check on his family. Nick always ended their conversations with “I love you, tell the rest of them”.
Survivors include Tammy Smiley of Westville, daughter, Nikki (Joseph) Popa of Mills River, North Carolina, son Joshua (Tiffany) Smiley of Wheatfield, his mother, Dot Papalambros of Louisville, Mississippi, siblings, Maria Ball, Gus (Renee) Papalambros, Angela Papalambros, Thomas (Somer) Papalambros, grandchildren, Easton, Everly & Caladin, and many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Louis Papalambros, and twin grandsons, Liam & Gracin.
A visitation will be held Saturday from 12 noon – 2:00 pm at Angelcrest Cemetery Chapel, 180 E. 600 N., Valparaiso, Indiana with funeral service beginning at 2:00 pm and burial to follow at Angelcrest Cemetery.
