Obituary of Colin Edison Nikles

Colin Edison Nikles passed away peacefully on March 4th, 2025.

Colin will be remembered for his bubbly personality, contagious laughter, mischievous antics, and unconditional love. Affectionately called “The Mayor” by his closest family and friends, he had a way of being the center of attention in every room, turning strangers into friends, and leaving everyone with a lasting smile. 

Growing up in Milford, Pennsylvania, Colin thrived at the Center for Developmental Disabilities and the Delaware Valley School District. He competed annually in the Area P Special Olympics, showcasing his determination and joy in the Assisted Walk and Wheelchair Slalom events. After graduating from DVHS, he found a second home at St. Joseph’s Center in Scranton, Pennsylvania. There, in the lively “Bachelor Pad” of Unit E, he flourished, dancing at parties, watching movies, and enjoying countless social outings.

Colin had a passion for media and technology. A true whiz with his iPad, he used it to communicate and was notorious for his FaceTime “prank calls.” He had an encyclopedic knowledge of Nickelodeon, Disney, Cartoon Network, and PBS, with favorites ranging from iCarly to Despicable Me. 

His enthusiasm for life extended far beyond the screen. Colin was in his element when he was in the water. Whether floating in a pool, splashing in a river, or gliding through a lake, he was always ready to “Kick, Kick, Kick!” Music brought him just as much joy. He had a deep love for movie soundtracks and disco, and he never turned down the chance to tap out a rhythm on a drum or play a few notes on the piano. If there was music playing, Colin was grooving, making sure everyone around him felt the beat too.

Colin created beautiful memories with the people who loved him. He spent countless hours zooming around the house on floor scooters with his mom, Denise, and his sister, Eileen, filling their home with laughter. He cherished TV time with his dad, Ed, and Dianne. He found comfort in listening to music before bed with Ray. Summers were spent swimming in the lake at Mimi and Papa’s house, and on Christmas mornings, he excitedly unwrapped presents alongside his cousins, Jenna and Abby, and his Aunt Diane and Uncle Dave. At Grandpa Jimmy’s house, he watched fireflies flicker in the night while sitting on the porch with his many cousins, aunts, and uncles. And at St. Joseph’s Center, he delighted in delivering mail to his friends and peers, always with the ‘Mailtime’ song from Blue’s Clues playing in the background. These moments and so many more defined a life filled with love, connection, and joy.

Throughout Colin’s entire life, he was surrounded by family, friends, nurses, teachers, aides, and community members that were wholly devoted to his inclusion and success. 

Colin’s celebration of life will be hosted at Stroyan Funeral Home, 405 West Harford Street, Milford, Pennsylvania, on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, from 3 to 6 PM. Memorial services will follow at 6 PM with Reve. Keith Raser officiating.  
 

Friends and family in attendance are encouraged to wear bright colors.
 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Ronald McDonald House Charities, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Inc., 26345 Network Place, Chicago, IL 60673-1263 or St. Joseph’s Center, 2010 Adams Avenue, Scranton, PA 18509.