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Rhode Island Businessman Nicholas Cardi Jr. Dies At 71

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (CBS/AP) — Nicholas Cardi Jr., a Rhode Island businessman whose family furniture store is a fixture in parts of New England, has died. He was 71.

Cardi's Furniture on Friday posted on Twitter that Nicholas Cardi Jr. died following a four-year battle with cancer.

Cardi co-owned the business with his two younger brothers, Ron and Pete Cardi. They've become local celebrities over the years, appearing in TV ads spoofing popular movies and television shows. The Providence Journal noted the trio is as famous in Rhode Island as the Marx Brothers.

The brothers' grandmother, an Italian immigrant, started the family business in 1928 as a dry goods store in Cranston. Today, Cardi's Furniture has retail outlets in Rhode Island, Massachusetts and New Hampshire.

Nicholas Cardi is being remembered for his extensive philanthropic work.

"Our brother, Nick, passed away today after a 4 year battle with cancer. Thoughts and prayers are with Nick's wife, son & our family. The Cardi family tradition in the furniture and mattress business continues with Ron, Pete & our entire team of employees, for many years to come," said tweet from the company.

(© Copyright 2019 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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