Obituary of Nicole Merino

Nicole Marie Merino - 1978 - 2024

Nicole Merino, beloved daughter, sister, partner, and friend, passed away on July 4^th, 2024,  after a courageous 6 year battle with cancer.

Nicole was born in the Bronx on November 15, 1978 to Fresa and Gerardo Merino, but lived her life in beautiful Queens.  Nicole's early education began at Queen of Peace Elementary School, where her curiosity and love for learning blossomed. She found her passion for gymnastics and Tae Kwon Do with her sister, at the Pomonok Community Center, eventually achieving a black belt!

As an advanced, dedicated student, Nicole attended Townsend Harris High School, followed by earning a Master’s Degree from Baruch College.  Through the INROADS program, she interned at Z100 and discovered her interest in the media industry.

Nicole's adventurous spirit led her to study abroad in London and work in Cologne, Germany, broadening her cultural horizons. She danced passionately with the Axiom crew doing Bollywood.  She also loved Flamenco, Hip-Hop, and Tap dance styles, showcasing her love for movement and expression.

Later in life, Nicole accomplished a personal milestone by learning to swim as an adult in the Ocean off Coney Island (crazy!). Professionally, she made significant contributions in the finance departments of Clear Channel, iHeartRadio, and Pandora Radio, heading up her departments and implementing practices still used today.

A voracious reader and library devotee, Nicole cherished her time at the Queens, Brooklyn, and New York Public Libraries, where she found solace and inspiration.  She loved to read, especially anything related to Harry Potter.  She loved Formula 1 racing, soccer of all kinds and smiling from ear to ear!  Her other true passion is music..with Peter Gabriel and Stromae being some of her favorite artists to listen to, seeing them both in concert recently.

Throughout a six-year battle with cancer, Nicole faced each day with grace and determination, inspiring all who knew her with her strength and resilience.

Nicole is survived by her devoted domestic partner, Brad Hoelscher, loving parents Gerardo and Fresa Merino, and sister Michelle Merino. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, colleagues, and all whose lives she touched.

Thank you to everyone who has been able to experience Nicole’s joy and energy through the years.  I hope it rubs off on all of us!!

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Canter in Nicole's name by clicking the DONATIONS tab on the left of this page.