Nicholas Navarino, 90, passed away peacefully on December 19, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, Nicholas lived a life full of love, kindness, and purpose.
Born on February 27th, 1934, in Staten Island to Isabelle and John Navarino, Nicholas grew up with a passion for education. He dedicated his life’s work to educating, earning his undergraduate and graduate degrees both in education from Wagner College and a doctorate from the University of North Carolina Greensboro. He served in the military, spending time at Fort Dix in New Jersey. He went on to become Principal at Grand View Elementary School, in Piscataway, NJ, and then at Washington Elementary School, in Millburn, NJ. He retired as Principal of Millburn Junior High School in 1999 after an over 40-year career, where he was respected for his dedication to his students. Always the educator, Nicholas provided many life lessons to his children and grandchildren, and always encouraged them to never stop learning. He always saw the potential in everyone and would encourage them to keep climbing. He provided advice, guidance, and support for anyone who needed it.

In retirement, Nicholas and his wife of 40 years, Patricia, kept busy by diving into real estate investments, moving often, and developing close communities and building friendships everywhere they lived. Nicholas and Patricia moved to Great Barrington, MA where they opened Renaissance Art School, serving the community in the arts. Nick and Pat thrived in their vibrant social circle, opening their home regularly to friends and family, organizing celebrations, and honoring life’s milestones. Most notable were their Christmas parties where family and friends were asked to bring an ornament to help decorate the tree, another example of the fun and community they built. A lifelong New York Yankees fan, who attended many games and passed along his love of the team to his children and grandchildren, Nicholas was also an avid reader and model maker; many of his projects are still proudly displayed. Nicholas served both his family and community with tireless dedication, leaving a lasting legacy in the hearts of all who knew him.
Nicholas is survived by his wife Patricia Navarino, sons Robert Navarino and his partner Sherri Gorelick, and Nicholas Navarino, and their mother Dolores, stepdaughters Jessica and Rebecca Donaruma, and stepson Matthew Donaruma. He also leaves behind eight grandchildren, Katie Navarino and her husband Jim Geant, Robbie Navarino, Troy and Tristan Navarino, Kiara Di Paola and her husband Bryce, Kylie, Julianna, and Victoria Scinto and a great grandson Luca Di Paola. He is also survived by his sister, Josephine Greico, and her son Jim and daughter Diane. Also many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who adored and loved him. All of whom will cherish the countless memories of his humor, guidance, and warmth. A memorial service will be held in Great Barrington for friends and family at a later date.