Nicholas Jude Dollwet

Nick Dollwet was born in San Francisco on May 7, 1927. He passed away in his home in Novato, California on Janury 5, 2019.  He was predeceased by his parents, Marguerite (Drolla) and Nicholas Dollwet, his sister, Alice Massie and two brothers, Charlie and Frank Drolla.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Lorraine Kelly Dollwet, and seven of his eight children: Nicholas, Jerrold, Elaine (Dave), Charles, Robert, Roy (Kazumi), Edward (deceased) and Alice from his first marriage to Marilyn Cullen. He is also the proud grandpa, to his 11 grandchildren and uncle to his surviving nieces, Gail, Sue, Marilyn and Joanne, and nephews, Bruce, Bill and John

At age 7 in San Francisco he sold newspapers, magazines, and Christmas wreaths to help with family finances and pay for admission (10 cents) to the local theatre on Saturdays. In l934 the family  moved to San Rafael.  Nick walked across the Golden Gate Bridge with his father on opening day in 1937, and again on the 50th anniversary.  He and Lorraine also attended the Golden Gate Bridge 75th anniversary celebration.

While attending St. Raphael's grammar school Nick worked at the Independent Journal, and he was involved in St. Raphael's Fiesta Day parades. He graduated from Tamalpais High school in 1945.  While attending Tamalpais he continued to work for the  I.J. in various capacities including the printing department where he was encouraged to continue his interest in the printing industry.  

Nick loved parades.  He ran the San Rafael Centennial Parade in 1974; the 75th anniversary parade of the San Rafael Elks Lodge #1108 in 1983; the Welcome Home the Troops Parade in July 1991 which honored the Marin military representatives who served in Kuwait and lastly, the Veterans' Day Parade in 1991.

He was drafted on VJ day, and after training, served on the aircraft carrier Shangri-La in their print shop.

His  duties also included being the  "Captains Talker".  His obligation was to be at the captain's side relaying commands.    He was released after one year, but volunteered to extend his duty to participate in the Bikini Atom Bomb test.

Nick joined Minnesota  Mutual Life Insurance Company in June of 1951 and continued his affiliation with them until his retirement on December 31, 2012.  He received multiple awards during his career and was at one time, the top life producer of the company.  He was a Life Member of the Million Dollar Round Table, and a member and past president of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors.  He was a member of LUPAC and NAHU and an Investment Advisor Representative.

He loved taking his kids on "mystery trips".  He would load the family in his car and take them on surprise filled adventures.  Later in life, he co-chaired many San Rafael Elks Club 49'er faithful mystery dinner trips.  Nick was a passionate gardener with an eye for design. His gardens were full of beautiful treasures to be enjoyed visually during a meal throughout the year. He loved planting many vegetables, flowers, plants and shrubs.  He also did beautiful brickwork around his home. 

Nick was a lifetime member (55+ years) of San Rafael Elks Lodge #1108; The Marvelous Marin Breakfast Club; Sons in Retirement (SIRS) Branch 22; Native Sons of the Golden West, Parlor No. 64; and served on the Board of Directors of the original Marin County Food Bank.  He was a proud member of St. Anthony of Padua's St. Vincent de Paul Society.

Our family wishes to thank Nick's caregivers during his long illness, especially Toni Matanatoto; and Deanna and Michelle of Hospice by the Bay.  They were there whenever we needed them.  

On Friday, January 18th, we will celebrate Nick's life at St. Anthony of Padua Church, 1000 Cambridge Street, Novato.

There will be a Rosary starting at 9:30 a.m. followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers please consider donations to St. Vincent de Paul Society at St Anthony's Church, 1000 Cambridge Drive, Novato, CA 94947 and Hospice by the Bay.  Arrangements under the direction of Monte’s Chapel Of The Hills,  San Anselmo     415-453-8440

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