Nicholas "Nick" T. Cantone

Nicholas "Nick" Cantone,77,  passed away peacefully on October 28, 2025. Nick born April 20, 1948 was bigger than life. He loved growing up on 1437 Market Street in Harrisburg. He graduated from John Harris High School Class of 1966 where he was a stand out baseball star. He was the son of parents, Ann and Louis Cantone.

His life was an epic story of overcoming obstacles to become a successful business owner of the areas most iconic sports bar and restaurant. For over 30 years, Nick Cantone’s Southern Italian Restaurant was the epicenter of a thriving community who gathered there to celebrate family, friends and special events. It was the place to be before and after Central Dauphin High School football games. Nick was a great supporter and sponsor of many high school sports. His reputation drew the likes of The Sopranos, BB King, Joe Paterno, Super Bowl MVP, Phil Sims and more.

His most important legacy will be how he made the restaurant a family affair. His father worked in the office and his mother, Mrs. C, made her special sauces and baked her Italian specialities. His children and family members were part of the show. He loved sharing his Italian heritage.

He is survived by his daughter Nicole Posavec (Thomas), sons Nicholas M. Cantone (Melissa) and Louis (Tony) Anthony Cantone. His grandchildren: Sofia and Trace Posavec, Alexis Cantone, Noah Hoffman, Cassidy and Catalina Cantone and Ryan Cantone. His sister, Lois Ann Griffiths (Doug) and brother, Tom Cantone (Anissa) His sister Chaplain Sadie Pounder ( Mike ) predeceased. There are also numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

To the public he was an icon, but to his children he was always dad. He is best remembered as being there for them and giving them advice that maybe at times wasn't what they wanted to hear. He was a beautiful human being with a charisma that was unmatched, so fun to be around, with the best sense of humor. He enjoyed doing the New York Times crosswords and putting together huge puzzles.

His generosity was an endless flow of helping others in need or sponsoring little league baseball teams to catering weddings and parties often at his own expense. He will be remembered for his amazing personality and his innovative creativity. He was the first sports tavern in the area to use satellite with multiple TVs to show various sporting events simultaneously. This is now a common practice. Cantone’s was voted #1 Italian restaurant in Harrisburg for many years.

Funeral Services for Nick will be held on Thursday, November 6, 2025 at 12:00 pm in Wiedeman Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 357 South Harrisburg Street, Oberlin, with Rev. Richard McAlister officiating. Burial will follow in Resurrection Cemetery. A visitation will be held from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm in the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank www.centralpafoodbank.org