It was the best of Marblehead on display Saturday morning as residents from across town gathered to wish a fond farewell to community member Nikolay Kuzmina, who has moved to Florida after the death of his mother in January.
“He has a special place in my heart,” said retired police officer Cabot Dodge, who served as school resource officer at Marblehead High when Kuzmina attended in the early 2000s. “He is loved by so many.”
Dodge was among scores of people who filled the Warwick Theater for a special morning organized by Kuzmina’s friend Dave Aldrich. Select Board member Jim Zisson read a proclamation honoring Kuzmina.
“As Nikolay embarks on his new chapter in sunny, warm Florida we send our sincere best wishes for happiness and continued success in his next adventure,” Zisson read. “While we wish him well in the warm weather, he will always remain a cherished part of the Marblehead community and we hope he returns often to visit, especially when the temperatures rise.”
Kumzina chimed in, “I will, Jim, I will.”
Kuzmina, 40, lived with his mother, who died last month in a single-car crash near their home. He is now moving to Miami to live with his sister, Olga Golinder, and her husband and children.
“I was devastated when my mom died,” Kuzmina said Saturday. “I’ve lived here my whole life. Marblehead is such a great town. I feel like a rock star today, except I have shorter hair.”
Kuzmina was beloved around town and known especially for riding his blue trike around MHS. Just last spring after his cycle hit a pothole and broke, the MHS track teams chipped in to buy him a new one. The story was covered by Boston TV stations.
On Saturday, several people presented Kuzmina with gifts, including a Marblehead Police Department shirt bearing his name and the title “Honorary Officer.”
“This is amazing,” Golinder said about the event. “It shows what kind of community Marblehead is — and how special Nikolay is. He’s an angel.”
Golinder said her brother is settling into life in Florida well. “He loves the weather and the palm trees.” Golinder’s in-laws live in the area, so the family will be back to visit.
Kuzmina’s old prom date, Emily Gawrys, came to say goodbye. The two have known each other since middle school and spent time together at Anchors to Windward, a day program in town for adults with disabilities.
“We’ll stay in contact,” Gawrys said, giving Kuzmina a big hug. “We have FaceTime.”
Aldrich also read a message from Kuzmina’s boss at Stop & Shop, where Kuzmina worked for 10 years. It highlighted Nikolay’s warmth, kindness and gentleness.
““The world needs more Nikolays,” Aldrich read.
