Nicholas J. Nelson

1994 - 2025

Nicholas J. Nelson, 31, of Derry, was unexpectedly and peacefully called home by his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Friday, Dec. 12, 2025, at his home. Born Feb. 22, 1994, in Latrobe, he was the son of Gregory and Beth Payne of Latrobe and Joseph and Beverly Nelson of Ligonier. Nick was a graduate of Greater Latrobe Senior High School and Eastern Westmoreland Career and Technology Center (2012), Westmoreland County Community College, and California University of Pennsylvania, earning an associate degree in robotics and a bachelor's degree in mechatronics, robotics, and automation. Nick's career path was to become an engineer, and while attending college and working a full-time job, he was a "guest lecturer" at the CTC. From that day on, he aspired to be a teacher. He taught at Chester County Technical College High School in Phoenixville and Central Westmoreland Career and Technology Center and was currently a professor at Westmoreland County Community College, where he was the Chairman for the Journeyman Machining Technology Program and the Chairman/Assistant Professor for the Robotics and Electronics Engineering Technology Program at WCCC's Advanced Technology Center. He loved teaching and encouraging people to learn and do their best. He was also an avid volunteer and a judge for Bots IQ. Nick was an active member of Pleasant Unity United Methodist Church. His unwavering faith in the Lord guided him through his life. He was thoroughly involved with the church and encouraged others to find their faith and follow the Lord. Nick was a phenomenal husband and son, but the most defining role was as an amazing father and uncle ("Unk"). The way his face lit up when he saw his children, nieces, and nephew can never be replaced. He was the most selfless, loving, loyal, kind, and generous man anyone could be blessed to have in his or her life or cross his or her path. He made an impact on every student he taught. Nick always loved to make people laugh and was well-loved by all. He was preceded in death by a sister, Christina Sindorf; and his grandparents, Herbert and Ruth Leary, Howard and Laura Payne, Clair and Shirley Nelson, and Ethel Ramsey. In addition to his parents, Nick is survived by his wife, Chelsea P. (Orner) Nelson of Derry; two children, Charlotte A. Nelson and Benjamin B. Nelson, who were his everything; one sister, Nikayla Yasurek, and brother-in-law, Jeff; brother, Michael DiCriscio III; brother-in-law, Coty Ronk (Heidi); and nieces and nephew, Octavia and Torvi Yasurek, who he called "darlin," and Jordan Ronk. He is also survived by numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. Family and friends are invited to arrive as early as 10 a.m. to visit, share stories, and pay their respects before the service at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025, at Pleasant Unity United Methodist Church, 4685 Route 981, Pleasant Unity, PA 15676. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to go towards Charlotte and Benjamin's care. Arrangements are being handled by the LOPATICH-BRINKER FUNERAL HOME LLC, 601 Weldon St., Latrobe. To sign the online guest book, send condolences, or share a story, please visit www.lopatichbrinker.com.