Michael Andrew Colella

Michael Andrew Colella, Sr., known as “Mick,” passed away on July 30, 2026, on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. He was 80 years old.

Born in New York, Mick lived in South America, New Jersey, North Carolina, and South Carolina, leaving an impact in each community. His life was shaped by service, entrepreneurship, friendship, and a love of golf.

Mick attended Mercersburg Academy and Drew University in New Jersey, where he was an All-American soccer and rugby player. He later attended Officer Candidate School in Quantico, Virginia, and served as a First Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps, including service in Vietnam. He received the Bronze Star and Purple Heart and served as Officer in Charge of the Rifle Range at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.

After his military service, Mick became a respected businessman and a key figure in the Hilton Head Island golf community. As co-owner of Golf Headquarters, he helped build one of the island’s most successful golf retail businesses, serving golfers for nearly four decades. Competing with more than twenty golf retailers, the shop became known for expert club repair, deep knowledge of the game, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Golf Headquarters also served as a gathering place. Mick was known for his generosity, often offering discounts to help others enjoy the game. He served on the Selection Committee Board of Directors for the Lowcountry Golf Hall of Fame.

Golf remained one of Mick’s greatest passions. He especially valued the friendships formed through the game and looked forward each year to “The Outing,” a decades-long annual golf trip with his college buddies.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alex and June Colella.

Mick is survived by his wife of 46 years, Deborah Colella; his sons, Michael Colella, Jr., Thomas Colella (Rea Colella), and Andrew Colella (Brianna Colella); his daughter, Jennifer Colella (Mo Mullen); his sisters June Ann Colella (Steve Newton) and Janis Colella (Ray Culin); his six grandchildren, Jessica Shake (Trevor Shake), Brynna Palmieri (Aaron Palmieri), Camryn Colella (Elton Hsiung), Deckard Colella, Torvi Colella, and Morrison Colella; and one great-grandson, Wren Palmieri.

A memorial service celebrating Mick’s life will be held on Monday, August 24, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Island Funeral Home in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. All who knew and loved Mick are welcome to attend. Guests are invited to wear khaki and white, Mick’s trademark uniform for life on and off the golf course.

Mick will be remembered for his military service, entrepreneurial success, lifelong friendships, and lasting impact on golf and the Hilton Head community.