Nicholas G. Collicelli, 64, peacefully entered into eternal rest on Tuesday morning July 19, 2016, in the comfort of his home, with his loving family by his side. He was the beloved husband of Christine Student Collicelli (aka “The Bride”).
Nick was born in Derby on Dec. 17, 1951, son of the late Conrad and Josephine Cinquemani Collicelli. A lifelong resident of Ansonia, he was employed by the Hamden Board of Education for 33 years, most recently as the Director of Social Studies, until his retirement in 2007. He later was an Adjunct Professor of Education at Albertus Magnus College in New Haven. He was a former member of the Ansonia Board of Education and former Democratic Town Committee Chairman in Ansonia.
In addition to his Bride, Nick is survived by sons, Nicholas (Jaimie Biga) of Derby, Adam (Victoria) and Steven of Boston, MA, in-laws, William and Matrona Regan of Orange and Michael and Joan Student of Milford, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Nick was an educator, mentor and friend whose advice and guidance inspired countless lives. His efforts to fight prejudice and bridge the generations were realized through his beloved Human Relations Club, which he initially founded in Hamden and more recently in Ansonia, Derby and Shelton. The initiatives of the Human Relations Club have had a transformative impact on people of all ages, from kindergartners to senior citizens.
Visiting hours will be held on Thursday July 21, 2016, from 4 – 7 pm in the chapel of the SPINELLI-RICCIUTI/BEDNAR-OSIECKI FUNERAL HOME, 62 Beaver Street in Ansonia. On Friday, relatives and friends are invited to attend his funeral at 10:00 am, (PLEASE MEET DIRECTLY) at Holy Rosary Church in Ansonia for a Mass of Christian Burial. Interment will immediately follow in Pine Grove Cemetery in Ansonia.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Nick’s memory may be made to the Nicholas Collicelli Legacy Fund at the Valley Community Foundation. The fund will honor Nick by supporting programs and individuals that best exemplify his passion for bringing people of all ages and backgrounds together in the quest to celebrate our common good. Please make contributions to the Valley Community Foundation, 253‑A Elizabeth Street, Derby, CT 06418 or donate online at www.valleyfoundation.org.
To send an act of sympathy, please visit www.spinelliricciutifh.com.
