St Rita Primary and former Rivermount College teacher Mario Collavino dies

Family and friends of a late Gold Coast teacher who has been remembered as a ‘storyteller’ and ‘vibrant spirit’ have been invited to a memorial to celebrate his life.

Mario Collavino with his wife Shanine and his children Antonio, Luca and Arianna.

Family and friends of a late Gold Coast teacher who has been remembered as a ‘storyteller’ and ‘vibrant spirit’ have been invited to a memorial to celebrate his life.

On Monday October 30, Redland Bay St Primary teacher Mario Collavino, 60 suddenly died.

Mr Collavino had previously worked at Rivermount College as a sports teacher and before becoming an educator was a police officer and army veteran.

On Wednesday, a GoFundMe was created by friend James Grieg to raise funds for Mr Collavino’s wife, Shanine and his four children Danielle, Antonio, Luca and Arianna.

After only two days of the GoFundMe being live, more than $27,000 was raised for the family.

Mario Collavino with his wife Shanine and his children Antonio, Luca and Arianna.

“Your generous donations have helped us raise an astounding (amount of money), all of which will go towards funeral expenses and supporting Shanine and the children during this time,” he said.

Mr Grieg invited the community to join family and friends to “celebrate the life of our beloved Mario”.

The memorial service will be held at Saint Stephen’s College in Upper Coomera on November 10 at 2.30pm, followed by a wake.

“We hope you will be able to attend and help us remember and honour Mario’s life,” he said.

Mr Grieg said Shanine requested those who come to the memorial to write down their favourite story or memory of Mario.

“She plans to compile these stories into a book for Arianna, Antonia and Luca so they can always have a piece of their father’s story with them,” he said.

Mario Collavino with his wife Shanine

“Shanine has been reading each of your messages, and she wants you to know just how much your kind words and generosity mean to her and the family.”

Tributes flooded the page created for Mr Collavino’s memorial.

“You had a profound impact on so many young lives and this will stay with them forever,” Le Anne posted.

“Rest easy Mario, you were a true gentleman and a man so very proud of his family.”

$27k raised for family of late Gold Coast teacher

Family and friends are remembering a former Gold Coast school teacher, husband and father of four as a “vibrant spirit” after he suddenly passed away.

Redland Bay St Rita Primary teacher Mario Collavino, 60, suddenly died on Monday October 30. He had worked previously at Rivermount College as a sports teacher.

Before becoming an educator was a police officer and army veteran.

A GoFundMe was created on Wednesday by friend James Greig to raise funds for Mr Collavino’s wife, Shanine and his four children Danielle, Antonio, Luca and Arianna.

Mario Collavino with his wife Shanine and his children Antonio, Luca and Arianna.

“On October 30, we unexpectedly lost a beloved father, husband, teacher and friend,” Mr Greig said.

“Mario’s vibrant spirit and love for his family and all the children he taught were evident to everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.

“During this time of immense grief, we are reaching out to friends and family to ask for your support in helping Shanine and the children navigate the financial burdens that come with losing a loved one.

“All funds raised will go towards funeral expenses and ensuring that his younger children Antonio, Luca and Arianna have the resources they need during this difficult time.”

After only 18 hours of the GoFundMe being created more than $15,000 was raised for the family.

12 hours later the GoFundMe had raised more than $27,000.

Mario Collavino swimming in the pool with his children.

“We understand that this is a challenging time for everyone, and any amount you can contribute will be greatly appreciated,” Mr Greig said.

Rivermount College’s principal Richard Young said the community was “deeply saddened and shocked” by the passing of Mr Collavino.

“Mario was a highly regarded staff member for over 11 years,” he said.

“Colleagues and past students have fond memories with him.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with Mario’s family.”

Friends and family from Redland Bay and the Gold Coast have shared their heartache and touching tributes after hearing the news.

Carolyn Watson who donated $200 to the GoFundMe said Mario “would always hold a special place” in her heart.

“A positive, passionate teacher, colleague and friend. May he reset in peace.”

Jessica Wheildon donated $100 to the Collavino family and said her heart was “breaking” for the family.

“Please know you are in my thoughts as you navigate the journey ahead,” she said.

“Wishing you moments and strength and solace as you reflect on your most precious memories of Mario.

“You are a strong beacon of light Shanine, and while you may not feel it right now, or for some time, know that I (along with many others) believe in you and support you.”

Mario Collavino with his wife Shanine

LNP candidate for Redland Bay Rebecca Young said her son and niece were heartbroken after hearing the news.

“My niece reflected in saying he made her feel safe at school and would miss that,” she said.

“Sending love to his family and the school community.”

Mr Collavino would tend to share touching family moments on Facebook including a flashback photo to his time representing Australia in the military.

Mario Collavino when he was serving in the Australian military.

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