Nicholas Ricciardelli Obituary

Nicholas Ricciardelli, 65, passed away on October 3, 2025, in Summerville, South Carolina shortly after moving there from Waterbury, Connecticut to begin his retirement. Born on December 15, 1959, in Southington, Connecticut, Nick lived a life defined by adventure, generosity, and an unwavering zest for living. A graduate of Southington High School and Southern Connecticut State University, Nick built a career rooted in leadership and service. He spent many years in retail and service management before retiring from Homestead Comfort in Ellington, Connecticut. His professional journey reflected his dedication to helping others and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Nick's passions extended far beyond the workplace. A true adventurer at heart, he embraced life with open arms and boundless energy. By land, sky, and sea, he pursued every opportunity to push limits, seek joy, and share it with others. He was an avid rugby player, a founding member of the SCSU rugby team, and was inducted into the first class of its Hall of Fame. A lifelong skydiver, he made over 2,000 jumps-flying solo, with students as a certified tandem instructor, and with teammates on the Go Big jump team. Never one to shy away from a challenge, Nick joined the Run 169 Towns Society and ran a road race in each of Connecticut's 169 towns. And his love of the ocean led him to become a skilled scuba diver, a PADI instructor, and an enthusiastic fisherman. Nick's adventurous spirit knew no bounds, and his life was a vibrant journey through every element. His commitment to making a difference was just as remarkable as his sense of adventure. In honor of his skydiving friend, Nick founded Tom Dore's Run the Runway 5K to raise funds for ALS research. Held at his skydiving airport in Ellington, Connecticut, the event combined Nick's passions, love of community, and drive to support meaningful causes. Nick is lovingly remembered by his partner Kate McKenna; his brothers Mark (Nancy) and John (Kathy) Ricciardelli; nephews Pace (Bess), Paul (Carrie), and Geoff (JoAnne); niece Mara (Bryan) Molinaro; grandnephews Geoff "LG," Mason, and Liam Ricciardelli, and Leo Molinaro; grandnieces Mia Ricciardelli and Nora Molinaro; Kate's children Casey (Josh) and Alex. He was predeceased by his parents Eugene and Mary Ricciardelli and his brother Paul Ricciardelli. A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date to honor Nick. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Nick's name to the ALS Clinical Trials Fund at Hospital for Special Care, New Britain, Connecticut. Nick loved life-and lived it fully. His passion for adventure was only matched by his passion for those he loved. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and inspiration to all who hear his story.