Editor’s note: This article was submitted by the family of Nicholas Masino.
In August 2004, Nicholas A. Masino, along with his brother John, took ownership of the Port Richmond Pharmacy at 2512 E. Clearfield St. In the eight years since, Nick’s presence has had an enormous impact in the community.
His generous spirit was well-known to anyone who walked into the store. As long as it was within his power to help, no one was ever turned away. This was a lesson Nick and John learned from their mother, whose portrait hangs in the store as a reminder that helping others is not a chore, but rather one of the pleasures in life.
Nick was a strong supporter of many local organizations. The Port Richmond Pharmacy has been very active in the Ladies of
Port Richmond group and its breast cancer awareness crusade; in State Rep. John Taylor’s annual Senior Expo; in Northwestern Human Services’ PACT Program, and in the 5K “Race for Humanity” organized by University of the Sciences in Philadelphia.
In addition, with Nick’s influence, the pharmacy has been active in a local coat drive, has sponsored an annual Thanksgiving food giveaway, and holds a Christmas party every year with a free photo with Santa and goodie bags for children. The store also contributes to local schools and athletic programs.
But the cause perhaps dearest to Nick’s heart was encouraging children to read. Whenever children came into the store, Nick would proudly give them a free book written by his son. He always told them to return when they had finished reading it, and he’d give them another. One year, he organized a special Mother’s Day book signing event in the community for anyone who wanted to attend.
Sadly, Nick passed away suddenly last week at the age of 56. He leaves behind the family he loved so very much — his wife Anita, his children Aaron, Flavia, Brian, Sarah-Maria, Kristie, Dan, Nicholas, Zachary and Rebecca, and his grandson, Jake. He is also survived by his father John Masino and six siblings: Gerry Masino, John Masino, Mary Ann Schwartz, Karen Masino, Claire Alesiani and Carol Bellaver.
Though Nick is gone, he will always be remembered by those he loved and the countless people his generosity reached.
The Port Richmond Pharmacy won “Best Pharmacy” in Star’s “Best of the River Wards 2012” reader’s choice contest earlier this summer.
