David Keith Nikoloff

David Keith Nikoloff, 69, of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, formerly of Harrisburg, passed away on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at Penn State Health Lancaster Medical Center. He was preceded in death by his parents, Kero and Elsie Nikoloff, and his brother, Marty Stambaugh. A 1974 graduate of Susquehanna Township High School, David continued his education at Harrisburg Area Community College and Penn State Harrisburg, earning his bachelor's degree in 1978. He went on to receive his Juris Doctor from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. David’s distinguished career in economic development spanned more than four decades. He began his career in 1983 with SEDA-COG, the 11-county Central Pennsylvania economic development agency, before becoming Director of Economic Development, Cumberland County Redevelopment Authority, where he greatly enjoyed working alongside Chris Gulotta. From 1991 to 2014, David served as President of the Economic Development Company (EDC) of Lancaster. During his tenure, he led the development and financing of several transformational projects, including Clipper Magazine Stadium, the Lancaster County Convention Center and Marriott Hotel at Penn Square, and the URBN Distribution Center. He also established Small Business Administration (SBA) offices in Lancaster and York and partnered with numerous existing and emerging businesses throughout Lancaster County to strengthen the local economy and create jobs. Following his leadership at EDC, David continued to share his expertise through positions with Blackford Ventures, Community First Fund, and AIM Advisors. David was a lifelong fan of Penn State football, the Philadelphia Phillies, and the Green Bay Packers. Yet no team or pastime ever meant more to him than the pursuits of his children, Alex and Jackie. He immersed himself wholeheartedly in every stage of their lives—from cheering them on with the Golden Meadows Swim Team (and managing the pool for an extra summer to keep it open), to Hempfield Youth Soccer, to supporting Jackie's filmmaking and Alex's music. He was especially proud of Alex's band, Strangest Life, whose EP, David, was dedicated in his honor. David possessed an extraordinary breadth of knowledge about history and his family's heritage. He was quick-witted, loved inside jokes, and delighted in good-natured banter. A fantasy football champion and longtime member of the Historical Miniature Gaming Society alongside his son, he also remained a devoted supporter of Arsenal FC and was thrilled to witness the club capture the Premier League title earlier this year. David and his wife, Janice, shared 33 years of marriage, building a life grounded in partnership, love, and mutual support. He also devoted himself to caring for his disabled brother, Marty, helping ensure that Marty could remain at home, surrounded by the comfort and love of family. David is survived by his beloved wife, Janice Olson Nikoloff of Lancaster; his daughter, Jacqueline ("Jackie") Nikoloff of Philadelphia; his son, Alexander ("Alex") Nikoloff and daughter-in-law, Kayla, of Delaware County; along with many extended family members, friends, and colleagues whose lives were enriched by his generosity, humor, and unwavering dedication. His legacy lives on in the communities he strengthened, the family he cherished, and the countless lives he touched with his kindness, wisdom, and steadfast support. David generously contributed to the Gift Life Program in Philadelphia. A Memorial Service will be held at The Groffs Family Funeral Home, 528 W. Orange Street, Lancaster, PA. 17603, on Friday, August 21, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. Friends are welcome to greet the family starting at 1:00 p.m. A Catholic burial service will be held at a later date.