Town statement on passing of Former Mayor Nathan G. Agostinelli
Published on March 25, 2024
It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Nate Agostinelli, a former mayor, lifelong public servant, and advocate for the Manchester community, who passed away last week at the age of 93.
“Nate Agostinelli was the embodiment of a public servant,” said Mayor Jay Moran. “From his time serving our country in uniform during the Korean conflict, to serving as my predecessor as Mayor and then as the only statewide elected official from Manchester as State Comptroller, to his affiliation with a broad range of local organizations in addition to a variety of local schools, churches, veterans’ associations, banking associations, and government initiatives, Nate always answered the call to serve this community he so dearly loved. His determination, hard work, and generosity shaped those around him, and his legacy of service and kindness will long endure in Manchester. On a personal note, he always thanked me for my service, and he always made me laugh. You always felt inspired when you were around Nate. I will miss him. On behalf of the entire Town of Manchester, we offer our deepest condolences to his family and friends.”
“Throughout his entire life, Mr. Agostinelli demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the success of Manchester,” said Town Manager Steve Stephanou. “Whether it was serving as Mayor or chairing volunteer initiatives, or even just offering input and support, Nate was a tireless champion for the Manchester community and devoted his life to serving the public. Up to as recent as last week, Mr. Agostinelli was closely involved with several community initiatives happening in Manchester. On a personal level, Mr. Agostinelli was incredibly generous to me in offering support and advice in my role as Town Manager. Along with everyone else in Manchester, I will deeply miss Nate and hope that his unwavering optimism, civility, and kindness will serve as a model for the rest of us.”
As a graduate of Manchester High School and a student at Hillyer College in Hartford and the University of Connecticut, Agostinelli was a long-time member of the Manchester community and surrounding region.
Agostinelli served in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict as well as in the US Army Reserve and Connecticut Army National Guard, where he reached the rank of brigadier general. He was also appointed by the Secretary of the Army to be a civilian aide to the secretary representing Connecticut and director of selective service for the state under President Clinton.
In addition, Agostinelli contributed to the development of Manchester through his career experience as President of Manchester State Bank, and is the only Manchester resident elected to state office, having served as state comptroller.
Mr. Agostinelli was also affiliated with a broad range of local organizations in addition to a variety of local schools, churches, veterans’ associations, banking associations, and government initiatives. Agostinelli, a son of Italian immigrants, was also involved with Unico, an Italian-American service organization, and the Army & Navy Club. His contributions also extended beyond local associations to include a range of services at the state level. Agostinelli received over twenty awards for service in both military and civilian spheres, including a Presidential Commendation and the Outstanding Civilian Service Medal presented by the Secretary of the Army.
Nate Agostinelli held many titles––brigadier general, mayor, bank president, state comptroller––but above all else, he was known as a man with a big heart who always volunteered with the usual quip, “I’ll do it,” and who gave over 60 years of service to both his country and his community. Known for his integrity, great character, and continuous service, the Nate Agostinelli Veterans Memorial Park, renamed for him in 2021- stands as a fitting honor.