Niki A. Bertotto

It is with profound sadness that the family of Niki A. Bertotto announces his passing on April 19, 2026 at the age of 52. He fought courageously until the very end and was surrounded by love. 

Niki is the beloved husband of Patrice (nee Malkowski), the love of his life. Son of Patricia (nee Bertotto) and the late Joseph Benner. Dear brother of Joseph "Conrad” Benner. Sadly missed by his mother and father in law Gerald and Annemarie Malkowski, his sister in law Tracy Malkowski (Bob Starnes) his brother in law Gerard Malkowski (Amanda), and his beloved friend Joseph Kearney, who was by his side until the end. Cherished uncle to Mac Soulsby and Sophia, Jules, and Frankie Malkowski, who were the joys of his life. Loving godfather to Alec Bird and Emma Arcinese. Also survived by many, many friends and extended family, all whom were special to Niki.

Niki was a proud resident of Philadelphia’s Fishtown neighborhood. He was a graduate of North Catholic High School for Boys and went on to earn his degree from Temple University’s School of Education, Class of 2011. Niki dedicated his career to teaching at Memphis Street Academy and E.M. Stanton Elementary School, where he was deeply admired by both his colleagues and the many students whose lives he touched.

A longtime summer resident of the Wildwoods, Niki was well known behind the bar, where his larger-than-life personality and signature Phillies batting helmet made him a local favorite. He will be remembered for his warmth, humor, and the genuine connections he formed with everyone he met.

Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate his life on Sunday May 3, 2026 at the Live Casino Event Center 900 Packer Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19148. Visitation will begin at 11am followed by his memorial service at 12:30pm. Please enter the parking garage on Darien Street and proceed to the event center on the second floor. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests memorial contributions to the Family Caregiver Center Fund at Penn Medicine http://www.pennmedicine.org/familycaregivercenterfund

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