Nick Stipelcovich, Jr.

Noted Southern Eating Champ, Nick Stipelcovich Jr., died last week. Stipelcovich, 54, a bar and restaurant owner, competed successfully in Louisiana crawfish and oyster contests and once tried his hand at hot dogs.

A member of the National Bartenders Hall of Fame, Stipelcovich won awards for his charitable fund raising efforts. He grew up in Louisiana and was a crowd favorite at the annual Acme World Oyster Eating Competition.

Stipelcovich is well known for setting the world crawfish eating record of 55 ¾ pounds in 45 minutes in Breaux Bridge, Louisiana in 1994. This feat earned him the moniker “Crawfish Nick.” He will be remembered for his charming and courteous manner.

He is survived by his wife, his daughter and two sisters.