Nicholas J. Barilla, 42, of Emmaus, died peacefully after a lengthy illness Dec. 30, 2019, at the Inpatient Hospice Unit at Lehigh Valley Hospital, Allentown. Born in Allentown, he was a son of Paul and Margaret “Midge” (Krepicz) Barilla. He resided in his personal independent apartment at Brookview Apartments as well as with his parents in Emmaus.

He was a 1998 graduate of Emmaus High School and a member of St. Thomas More Church, Allentown.

He was a passionate, caring person who thought of others before himself. He especially enjoyed supporting others with the assistance of his community integration specialists at VIA of the Lehigh Valley. With their assistance he volunteered at Meals on Wheels, food bank, Bethlehem Library, Cedarbrook Nursing Home and Holy Family Manor. His infectious pleasant personality impacted all who interacted with him. He loved his pets especially his dog, Sadie and had a goal to engage in pet therapy.

He was a Special Olympics athlete participating in swimming, track and field, golf, bocce and bowling until his physical activity was limited by his health.

He enthusiastically sang in the St. Thomas More choir.

He is survived by his parents; brothers, Andrew Paul (Courtney), Anthony Joseph (Carrie); sister, Virginia Daversa (Joseph); six nieces and nephews; extended family. He was predeceased by maternal grandparents, Paul and Catherine (Husack) Krepicz and paternal grandparents, Paul and LaVerne (Rex).

Contributions may be made in his name to Lehigh Valley Hospital Inpatient Hospice or VIA of the Lehigh Valley.

Arrangements were made by the Bachman, Kulik & Reinsmith Funeral Home, Emmaus.