Nikollaq Zhaka, 77, of Worcester died Monday, November 20th at home surrounded by his family. He leaves his wife, Loreta (Nasto) Zhaka; three daughters, Anila Gjanci and her husband, Thanas of Framingham, Monika Durmillari and her husband, Bardhyl of Worcester and Ornela Belishta and her husband Astrit of Worcester; five grandchildren, Nersjan, Inva, Elia, Irli and Nicholas; his sister, Vasilika Lolo and her husband Dhimitraq of Worcester; and his nieces and nephews Theodhor, Kaliroi, Tatiana, Adelina, Thanas, Vangjushi and their families, in addition to many other cousins. He was predeceased by his son, Ilia Zhaka.
He was born in Korce, Albania the son of Ilia and Anastasi (Marko) Zhaka. Niko was an impeccable father, loving grandfather and devoted husband. He emigrated to the United States in 1994 in search of bettering the lives of his wife, daughters, and their families. He enjoyed being with his family even if he was just sitting at home on the couch or spending a few hours at the casino, a favorite pastime of his. He loved being outdoors whether he was gardening and maintaining his fruits and veggies, going fishing in nearby lakes, or going to Florida to simply soak up the sun. He was a family man who went the extra mile. Niko had a hilarious sense of humor and always had a smile on his face and a joke on his lips. He enjoyed a good conversation with friends, new or old. The legacy of Niko's kind spirit, passion for the outdoors, and zest for life will live on through his children and grandchildren.
His funeral is FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 24TH with a service at 10:00 AM in St. Nicholas Orthodox Church, 34 Gold Street, Shrewsbury. (Please go directly to church). Burial will follow in Hope Cemetery, 119 Webster Street, Worcester. Calling hours are WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22ND from 5:00 until 8:00 PM with a Trisagion service at 6:00 PM in O'CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue.