Renaissance Senior Living of Hilldale resident Nicholas Petruzzi, known to everyone as Nicky, grew up in a close-knit Italian community in New Jersey alongside his sister. From a young age, he learned the value of hard work, helping out in his family’s garage and gas station run by his father and uncle. That early experience shaped a strong work ethic that would stay with him throughout his life.



After graduating from Hammonton High School, Nicky made a bold and memorable decision—he and five friends skipped school one day and enlisted in the Marines together! Serving in the reserves, Nicky remained stateside before returning home to partner with his father in a small car dealership. At one point, they proudly held the title of likely being the smallest Dodge dealership in the United States, specializing in pickup trucks for their rural community.

Nicky dedicated many long hours to the business, but as larger dealerships grew, it became more difficult to compete. Eventually, the family sold the business outright—a process that took time and patience. During this transition, Nicky spent some time in Atlantic City working in construction, where he joked he was probably the oldest man on the crew! Not long after, he was able to retire early.

Family has always been at the heart of Nicky’s life. He is the proud father of two sons and grandfather to five grandchildren. Over the years, life took him from New Jersey to Florida, and eventually to Champaign, Illinois, where he moved to be closer to his oldest son. Starting fresh in a new place where he didn’t know a soul wasn’t easy—but Nicky embraced the challenge. By joining Gold’s Gym, he quickly built friendships and created a vibrant new chapter for himself.

Like many, Nicky found the events of 2020 especially difficult, as it disrupted his daily routines and connections. But his resilience carried him through. When his son later relocated to the Madison area, Nicky followed—and once again, he’s building friendships and staying active at the gym, something he enjoys almost every day (weather permitting!).

A former high school football player, Nicky still values staying active and engaged. He’s especially fond of his current home, where he enjoys a great view—including a perfect vantage point of the local flag to gauge just how windy the day might be!

Though he appreciates his new surroundings, Nicky admits he deeply misses the Italian food from back home in New Jersey. Still, his warmth, humor, and unmistakable charm have made him a joy to be around.

Nicky brings personality, wit, and a wonderful sense of humor to our community—and we are grateful to have him here!