Nicholas James Montano, a pioneering educator, handwriting analyst and authority on written language, died on Sunday, Sept. 29, 2024, at Milford Health and Rehabilitation Center in Milford, CT. He was 83.
Born on March 27, 1941, to Nicholas Montano and Martha Ercolano, Montano grew up in New Haven, CT, where his family owned and operated the Washington Bar & Grill, a beloved neighborhood institution. The youngest of three siblings, Montano learned the value of hard work at a young age, assisting in the family business. He graduated from Amity High School in 1959 and briefly attended Fairfield University after studying at Fairfield Preparatory School.
He married Theresa Ferrante in 1961, and together they raised six children. To support his growing family, Montano began working as a repairman for coin-operated amusement, music devices, and vending machines across southern Connecticut. While his mechanical skills were impressive, Montano’s true strength in the automatic merchandising industry emerged in the development and marketing of snack, food, and beverage solutions for workplaces. Despite the demanding nature of his work, he always tried to prioritize family, ensuring that every Sunday was spent gathered around the table for a traditional
Italian dinner with grandparents and extended family.
In 1978, Montano made the bold decision to return to school, where he pursued both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in applied psychology at Fairfield University. He balanced his education with work and family life for seven years, demonstrating incredible dedication. During this time, he discovered a passion for handwriting analysis, which sparked his lifelong interest in how the brain works. This led to a career as a handwriting analyst, document examiner and educational consultant, with a focus on understanding how handwriting connects to health and learning.
In 1992, Montano shifted to education, becoming a student advisor and GED instructor at New Haven Adult and Continuing Education Center. By 1995, he was a full-time science teacher, earning recognition as Teacher of the Year for his commitment to his students. His passion led him to roles as workplace education coordinator and grantwriter, broadening opportunities for adults in Connecticut.
Montano became assistant principal of the New Haven Adult and Continuing Education Center in 2006. He was dedicated to developing meaningful educational programs, training staff and securing resources, and his efforts were recognized through awards like the CAACE Leadership Award and the Bethel A.M.E. Church’s Award of Excellence on Educators’ Day.
Outside of education, Montano was highly respected as a handwriting and document expert, serving as an expert witness in state and federal courts. Over his 35-year career, he shared his expertise at conferences across the country and offered valuable insights into the connection between handwriting, psychology, and the brain.
Montano was a passionate advocate for his community, dedicating his time to causes close to his heart. He served on boards for local educational and literacy programs, always finding ways to help others learn and grow, no matter their age or background. He also was involved in groups like the American Association of Handwriting Analysts and the International Dyslexia Association.
Montano is survived by his wife, Theresa Montano, and their six children: Nicholas James Montano Jr. (Carol) of New York City; Jessica Grigas of Milford, CT; Peter Montano (Joann) of Coventry, CT; Jeffrey Montano (Andrea) of Milford, CT; Michele Cummings of West Haven, CT; and Jennifer Koczko (Michael) of Franklin Square, NY.
Additionally, he is survived by nine grandchildren, Paul and Jonathan Grigas, Matthew (Alexa) Montano, Jillian Montano, Danielle Cummings, Abigail and Gabriella Koczko, and Kate Montano. He leaves behind seven nephews and nieces whom he loved dearly, and hundreds of friends, cousins and admiring students. He is predeceased by his brother Dr. George V. Montano (March 2019) and sister Carmel DiLeone (August 2023).
He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
A memorial Mass will be held at St. Agnes Church (400 Merwin Ave., Milford, CT) at 11 a.m. on Oct. 8, 2024, followed by a reception. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Diabetes Association.