Nick was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose love for his family was the foundation of his life. He will be remembered for his strength, kindness, generosity, and the lasting impact he made on all who knew him.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Karen Guillette DiMarino; his sister, Joanie DiMarino Cross (James); his children, Nicholas Joseph DiMarino III (Tonya), Kathy Lynn DiMarino, and Douglas Brian DiMarino (Kriston); his grandchildren, Kylee Ann Coxen, Alyssa McKenzie DiMarino and her fiancé, Tyler Rutledge, Taylor Alexis Gray (Tyler), Grace Alexandra DiMarino, and Caroline Reese DiMarino; and his cherished great-granddaughter, Taytum Ann Gray. He is also survived by his nephews, Steven Anthony Edwards (Faith) and Mark Thomas Edwards (Missy), and his great-nieces and great-nephew, Maddie, Jake, Mackenzie, and Abby Edwards, as well as many other loving relatives and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Nicholas Joseph DiMarino, Lt. Col (Ret.) and Helen Ferrell DiMarino; his granddaughter, Elizabeth Ashley DiMarino; and his grandson, Ty Rey Coxen.

Nick graduated from Homer L. Ferguson High School (1964) and Newport News Shipbuilding Apprentice School (1968) and began his career as a machinist at Newport News Shipbuilding, where he worked for 14 years. He later joined the Amoco Oil Refinery in Yorktown, Virginia, where he spent 18 years and retired in 1996 as Superintendent of Maintenance. Whether at work or at home, Nick believed that if a job was worth doing, it was worth doing right.

Nick was known for ruling his household with what many would lovingly describe as an "iron fist."   His children, and even many of their lifelong friends knew that being called into a conversation with Nick could make your stomach drop a little. Everyone wanted to stay on his good side, and nobody wanted to disappoint him. Yet beneath that tough exterior was a man with an enormous heart. No matter how stern he could be, there was never any doubt that he loved fiercely, protected relentlessly, and would do absolutely anything for his family.

To say Nick loved fishing would be an understatement; he was obsessed with it. He approached fishing with the same intensity he approached life: determined, competitive, and always convinced the next cast might be the one. Being on a boat wasn't simply a hobby for Nick; it was a lifelong passion.

He was equally passionate about hunting and cherished the time he spent outdoors. Golf was another favorite pastime, though family members may tell you that the social aspect was sometimes more successful than the scorecard. Nick never passed up an opportunity to spend time on the course with family and friends.

Nick was also an exceptionally talented, self-taught woodworker whose craftsmanship reflected his patience, attention to detail, and creativity. From intricate dollhouses and handcrafted family board games to beautiful home décor pieces, he poured himself into every project. His final creation, a large "LOVE" sign made for his granddaughter's wedding, stands as a lasting symbol of the care and devotion he put into everything he made.

Nick's greatest joy was the time he spent with his family. His unwavering love, guidance, and dedication created a legacy that will continue through the generations that follow. He leaves behind countless memories that will be treasured by those fortunate enough to have shared in his life.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at W. J. Smith & Son Funeral Home in Newport News, Virginia. Visitation will begin at 11:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 12:00 p.m. A graveside service will immediately follow at 1:00 p.m. at Peninsula Memorial Park.

In lieu of tears, Nick would probably prefer a good fish story, a shared laugh, and time spent with family. After all, those were the things he loved most.