Nicholas Ernest Andreson, 92, fell asleep in the Lord on January 8, 2022, at his home in Worcester, MA. Known to his family and friends as “Nicky” or “Nick”, Mr. Andreson was born in 1929 in Worcester, the son of Ernest and Helen (Latchis) Andreson. He was a graduate of Wilbraham Monson Academy, Clark University, where he received his B.A., and Cornell University, where he earned his M.B.A. Mr. Andreson met the love of his life, Anastasia Spelios, at an engagement party of mutual family friends in 1954. They married in 1956 and, together, shared a 63-year marriage filled with unconditional love and devotion. He was an adoring and generous husband, father and grandfather.
Mr. Andreson was the owner of the famed Colonial Bowling Center in Worcester. It was an iconic business in the city and housed 24 lanes of candle-pin bowling. Built in 1960, Mr. Andreson, along with his brother, James, used the land his father had bequeathed on Mill Street, and he set his sights on creating the most family friendly and pristine bowling establishment. Famous for its retro’60’s decor, Colonial Bowl was the site of many local and state tournaments, had record scores posted on the walls, and had many famed bowlers compete there. He took out a full-page ad in the Worcester Telegram in 1960 to announce his opening and held a private ribbon cutting party prior to that opening day with local politicians, business leaders, family and friends in attendance. From the day he opened his doors, people lined up to bowl and Colonial has had many treasured customers. Leagues were established from all the area factories and businesses like Wyman-Gordon and Norton Co. Customers created leagues from churches and synagogues, retirement groups, private clubs and more. Anecdotes from around the area recall how someone either met their spouse at Colonial Bowl or had their childhood birthday parties in the Center’s private room. Mr. Andreson was featured in many articles over the years chronicling his business and its longevity. He closed the doors to his famed business in March of 2020 and forever will be remembered by many in the area.
Mr. Andreson was predeceased by his wife, Anastasia in 2019. He is survived by his two children, Heather Renzoni of Holden, MA, and Priscilla and her husband, Ronald Tedesco of Mission Viejo, CA, and his three grandchildren: Nicholas Renzoni, Nicholas Tedesco and Christiana Tedesco. He is also survived by his sisters, Constance Berberian of Andover, MA and Thelma Adams of Sarasota, FL. He was predeceased by his brother, James Andreson and his son-in-law Michael Renzoni.
His funeral is Friday, January 14th with a service at 10:30 a.m. in St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 102 Russell Street. Burial will follow in Hope Cemetery. A visitation will be held from 9:30 until the time of the service on Friday at the Cathedral. In lieu of flowers please make memorial contributions to St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Cathedral. O'CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME is assisting the family with arrangements.