Nina Hikari Martino

Nina Hikari Martino (Pettigrew), 53, of Saratoga Springs N.Y., passed away on Thursday, February 27, 2014 after a brief illness. She was born on June 28, 1960 in New Haven Connecticut the daughter of John and Kazuko Uchida Pettigrew.

       She graduated from Saratoga Springs High school, attended sessions at Juilliard pre-college and classes at Skidmore College. She was a musician and an artist, sculpting was her favorite art medium. She spent many years sculpting and assisting at the Skidmore art department.

       Nina will be remembered for her infectious sense of humor, kindred spirit and big heart. She touched the lives of many children in the neighborhood bedsides her son and daughter.  Nina had a soft spot in her heart for children, the elderly and anyone that would be considered an underdog in our society. This even included her four legged friends that she called her little animals. Nina was a strong Christian believer with the outer and inner beauty of an angel. She also possessed a beautiful singing voice. Today she sings with the other angels in heaven.

      She was predeceased by her father John Phillips Pettigrew. Survivors include her son John J. Martino of Saratoga Springs; her daughter Juliet (Mikey) Martino of Saratoga Springs; her mother Kazuko Pettigrew; her companion John Swizersky; her sisters, Elaine Hurley, Ingrid Keys and Bethany Maglione; her nieces Tomiko and Michelle; her nephews Dustin and Mark; her ex-husband and friend for life John R. Martino.

       Calling hours will be held at Compassionate Funeral Care, 402 Maple Avenue, (Rte. 9) Saratoga Springs N.Y., on Tuesday March 4th from 4 pm to 7 pm.  In lieu of flowers or contributions, Nina’s wishes would best be served by a random act of kindness or a smile to one in need.  She was a very strong believer in pay it forward.  

       Online condolences can be made at www.compassionatefuneralcare.com