Nicholas Anthony Dorinzi, age 36, of Morgantown, died Sunday, Nov. 26, 2023, in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., after a long struggle with addiction. He was born Jan. 22, 1987, in Morgantown, the son of John Carl Dorinzi and Donna Tharp Dorinzi.
Nick was a Morgantown High School graduate and graduated from WVU in 2009 with a bachelor’s degree in business and marketing. He most recently was employed as Program Director at Blue Waters Recovery Foundation, Pompano Beach, Fla., where he had entered for recovery services for his own addiction. During his recovery and after sobriety, Nick was known for helping others fight addiction. Many considered him an inspiration as he led meetings and supported those in recovery.
Growing up, Nick loved playing basketball and spending time at his family’s cabin at Cheat Lake. During his recent years in Florida, he enjoyed group outings with friends in recovery and especially enjoyed quiet meditation at the beach. He had a great love for animals and took special care of dogs fostered at the recovery center. Nick loved all genres of music and seemed to know lyrics to a million songs, earning him the nickname of iPod. Known as a kind soul, he offered support to anyone struggling and had a way of lifting spirits. He befriended and tried to help those who would not have asked for help on their own. Nick was known for his big smile and infectious laugh. He will be remembered as a gentle giant.
In addition to his parents, Nick is survived by his sister, Nicole (wife Diane); Uncle Jim Dorinzi (Virg); Aunt Judy Dorinzi Kun; Uncle Chad Kearns; Aunt Marsha Tharp; Aunt Tammy Thorne (Denny); honorary uncle, Larry Martin; and many cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by maternal grandparents, Donald Tharp and Cecilia Kearns; paternal grandparents, Victoria and Carl Dorinzi; and Uncle Jack Dorinzi.
A Celebration of Life was held in Florida on Dec. 3, 2023. A Celebration of Life will be held in Morgantown at a later date to be announced.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Nick’s name can be made to Blue Waters Recovery Foundation, 521 SW 2nd Place, Pompano Beach, FL 33060 (bwrfoundation.org), Lauren’s Wish (laurenswish.org), or St. Ursula Food Pantry, P.O. Box 18, Pursglove, WV 26546.
Hastings Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements including cremation services.
