Peter Colella

Peter Colella was a loving and dedicated husband, father, and grandfather, who strove for the happiness of his family and friends. He was a hard worker, and taught us the value of diligence and commitment.

Born during the decade of the roaring twenties, Leonardo and Madeline Colella were delighted at the birth of their son, Peter, on May 6, 1925. He was the youngest of eight children and grew up in the bustling city of Chicago, Illinois. Peter's parents were immigrants from Italy, so Peter had two cultures to learn as he grew up. Since he was born, Peter was raised a Catholic, which instilled in him the importance of faith.

As a young boy, Peter had an accident that caused him to have a bad foot his whole life. Despite this struggle, Peter was optimistic and still took on difficult tasks. He always dressed up sharp and was quite a handsome city boy. He met his future Wife Shirley at a restaurant in Chicago, and the couple were quickly married at the city hall, when she was just 19 and he was 27.

Peter began a life with his bride, and found work at Grand sheet metal in Mellrose Park outside Chicago and also helped out at his brother's bakery, "Claudio Pastry Shop." Shirley worked there as well, and the coupe were quite a team.

Leaving Chicago for Holland, Michigan in the mid 1960s, Peter and Shirley began a new chapter of their lives together. Peter worked for Life Savers there, and their family began to grow with the births of their children. Peter loved his family, and was especially proud to sit down to a big Italian meal with them. Unfortunately, Peter was involved in a bad car accident when he was 50 years old while on his way home from work, which caused him to be disabled. He pushed on, though, never giving up.

Peter loved to spend time with his family and was delighted at the births of his grandchildren. He taught his oldest granddaughter, Alyssa, how to tie her shoes, which was an important and unforgettable memory for both of them. He loved to play with his grandkids, and was a very involved father and grandfather, whether they were riding bikes, roller skating, or playing ball games.

Sadly, Peter Collela died Wednesday, June 4, 2008, at the age of 83. He died at his daughter's home, where Peter was able to feel love and support from his family. He will be greatly missed.

Peter was a family man, and cared deeply for each person he met throughout his life. He leaves us a legacy of kindness and compassion, reminding us that nothing is more important than moments shared with loved ones.

Peter is survived by his wife of 55 years Shirley Colella; children Ricky Colella of Holland, Paula Colella of Holland, David Colella of Holland, John and Shawn Colella of Mason, Ohio, Naomi Colella of Holland; grandchildren: Alyssa, Christopher, Trina, Nina, Adam, Don, Nolan, Cattra; great-grandchildren Jeffrey, Jacob, Lindsey, Zachery, Brayden, Robert Jr., Juliana, Neveah, Bryce, Damien; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Services will be 1pm Monday June 9, 2008 at The Northwood Chapel at Dykstra Life Story Funeral Home, 295 Douglas Ave. Holland MI. Visiting will be from 12 to 1 pm Monday the hour before the service at The Northwood Chapel. Burial will be in Pilgrim Home Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Hospice of Holland. Please visit www.lifestorynet.com to sign Peter’s online registry, share a photo, or document a memory of Peter.