Nick's Restaurant Owner, Four-Time Pacifica Mayor Dies at 92

Nick Gust, a philanthropist and longtime Pacifica businessman, passed away Dec. 5 at the age of 92. He was born in Daly City in 1921, graduated from Jefferson High School in Daly City and briefly attended San Mateo Junior College. His parents were Greek immigrants who started a restaurant business in 1927 in Rockaway Beach, Pacifica, which later became known as Nick's Restaurant. Gust was a welder, served in the US Army Air Force during World War II and helped his family run the business which — with his wife Lorraine Pendola, whom he married in 1947 — eventually grew to include the Sea Breeze Motel in 1953 and Moonraker Restaurant. Gust was Mayor of Pacifica four times, ending his political career in 1980. He was a longtime member of the Pacifica Lions Club, the Chamber of Commerce, and an honorary Rotary Club member. He owned the Linda Mar Convalescent Center for 10 years and lived in Pedro Point. He was also a big contributor to local charities and was bestowed with the "People Who Care" award from Pacificans Care in 2011. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations should be made to the Pacifica Resource Center.

Richard Arago, 59, a resident of Pacifica, passed away peacefully after battling cancer on Nov. 27. A native of San Francisco, Rich grew up in the Crocker Amazon district and graduated from Balboa high school. He met the love of his life, Donna, at the age of 20 and they married in August 1978. Rich was a member of IBEW 1245 and worked for PG&E for the last 33 years. An avid bowler and fortunate video poker player, he enjoyed having a good time surrounded by his family and friends. He is survived by his wife Donna of 35 years, daughter Angela (Frederick) Poli, daughter Nicole (Brandon) Canas, and son Anthony Arago.

Philip Joseph Caracciolo, passed away at home in Pacifica on Nov. 24.  He was a native of San Francisco and a long term employee of Candlestick Park. He is survived by his wife, mother, brother, children, and grandchildren. Memorial Donations can be made to the American Cancer Society.