Nicholas C. “Nick” Kollar Jr., age 46, of Shelby, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 at OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital in Columbus following a brief illness. His loving family was at his side.
Nick was born on August 3, 1979, in Shelby and was a 1998 graduate of Shelby High School and Pioneer Career and Technology Center, where he studied in the auto body program. During his junior year of high school, Nick obtained his STNA certification and worked at that time at Crestwood Care Center. Nick worked at Dollar General and Rite Aid, where he was known for his hard work stocking shelves, operating the cash register, and unloading trucks.
Nick took great pride in being an officer with the Sons of the American Legion, O’Brien Post 326, Shelby serving in several roles including Chaplain, Adjutant, and was a member of the Firing Squad. Being part of the organization meant a great deal to him, as it gave him a strong sense of belonging and community.
Nick enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. Simply gathering and being together meant everything to him, whether it was playing board games or cards, sharing stories, looking at Christmas Lights, or enjoying each other’s company. He also loved the outdoors and found peace in watching animals and nature and felt most comfortable in his cowboy boots.
He enjoyed traveling and visited many states including Utah, Kentucky, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and especially Colorado, where he spent time visiting friends and riding horses. Nick also enjoyed music, whether listening at home or attending live performances.
Although his life was far too short, Nick lived it fully. He was known for his positive outlook and lively spirit. He believed strongly in treating others the way he would want to be treated, and that kindness guided the way he lived his life.
Nick is survived by his loving parents: Randie (Messersmith) and John Boyer; aunts and uncles: Diana Haley, Debra (Don) Adkins, and Kim Messersmith (Kevin Wappner); as well as numerous cousins, friends, and other relatives. He was preceded in death by his grandparents: Dick and Opal Messersmith and Marilyn Phillips; and by his aunts and uncles: Rich and Sheila Messersmith, James Haley, and Janet Witschi.
Family and friends are invited to gather on Saturday, March 7, 2026, from 11 am to 1pm at the Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby, where funeral services will immediately follow at 1 pm. Pastor Michael Padula, pastor of First United Methodist Church of Shelby, where Nick attended, will officiate. Memorial contributions can be made to the Sons of the American Legion, O’Brien Post 326, Shelby.
Care for Nick and his family is being provided by Penwell Funeral Home, 168 West Main Street, Shelby. Condolences may be shared on the funeral home’s website at PenwellFuneralHome.com or on its Facebook page.
I’m very sorry to hear of Nick’s passing. We went to school together and he was always a kind soul. We lost touch over the years but it sounds like he continued to be a bright light in this world. My prayers are with his family. 🙏🏼
I am so sorry for your loss. Nick will be greatly missed.
My heart goes out to his family. God be with you all. ❤️
so sorry for your loss.was just thinking him the other day
Randie, I am so sorry to hear of Nick’s passing. Thinking of you and your family
Randie and John please know my thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. May God wrap his loving arms around you to comfort you and give you strength for all the days forward🙏💐
I’m so sorry for the grief and heartbreak that Randie and John and his family is walking through. Nick will be missed by everyone who knew him in his circle around in his short life. He was a good son and good being. May you be comforted by our loving God.
Randie, John and family saying prayers to heal your sad hearts right now. He will be surely missed
Nick was a great person. I am related by marriage but really enjoyed the Bonfires yearly and spending time with him and his family
What a kind gentle man and friend Nick has been to all who knew him. R. I.P. ✝️✝️✝️
Nick was one of the best, a pure soul. There wasn’t a mean bone in his body. Sending sincere condolences and prayers to Randie and John. RIP Nick
So sorry to hear of Nicks passing. We have fond memories of him out here and riding horses with us. I know he left you with a lot of wonderful memories. He was a great guy. Hugs to you and the family.
Thinking of you Randie. 🤍
We are so sorry to hear of Nick’s passing. We met him when he Visited Rhode Island and Massachusetts! Was traveling with my wife’s Aunt. He was great conversation, seemed very kind. We kept up with Facebook and Playing Monopoly Go together. RIP Nick. 😓
Jon, Randie and family, I am so very sorry to hear of Nick’s passing!! He will be sadly missed!! I hope that you will find comfort in your beautiful memories!! Much love and prayers, Sue
So sorry for your loss..he was a nice and gentle soul..we went to school together and graduated the same year…my prayers to the family
I am so saddened by hearing of this. What a great guy. My thoughts and prayers are with you 🙏 ❤️
Deepest condolences to all the family. Prayers.
I’m glad that I hired Nick at Rite Aid. “Welcome to Rite Aid, how can I help you” became a common phrase we heard from him. Always wanting to help our customers. Truck days were the best. Nick and I had worked a great system that the drivers loved. He would show us pictures of his puppies that he loved so much. I was sad to see Nick leave us. I’m sorry to hear that he left us too soon!