”The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John 1:5
Colleen Elizabeth Buckley was tragically taken from us on May 20th 2022. She is survived by her mother Deb Buckley, father Ed Buckley, younger sister Michaela Buckley, Grandmothers Barbara Walker Floyd and Alice Buckley as well as many Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, Friends, and Students.
Colleen was born on September 20, 1996. Even as a baby her greatest loves in life: Dance and God, were already apparent. A colicky infant, the only thing that soothed her was constant movement–we literally marched her around the house while singing Amazing Grace. Her need to move was apparent–she walked at 9 months and loved to be outside exploring the world.
As a toddler, she loved to be read to, and was able to read for herself by kindergarten. We spent hours surrounded by piles of books reading together. She could tell you about Stonehenge before she was 3.
At just 2 ½ she declared “I want to be a Ballerina.” We didn’t know where this came from, maybe it was an idea that she’d grow out of. We told her she had to be 4 to take dance lessons. She continually asked, “Am I 4 yet?” When she was 4 we enrolled her at Perinton Dance Company. At the age of 7 we took her to her first professional Ballet, Swan Lake. After the show she was almost inconsolable because she wanted the dancers to come out again, she didn’t want the Ballet to be over. That same year she danced in her first Nutcracker: as the Bunny Soldier in MC Classical Production’s The Nutcracker Story. She has performed in a version of Nutcracker every year since.
Her drive and work ethic were apparent from a very young age.
By the time she was in high school, she would go to school all day (7:00-3:00) then immediately go to dance at Draper Center for Dance Education until 9:30. She’d come home, eat, and then do homework until midnight. Education was important to her and she earned all A’s in her IB and AP classes. It was an exhausting schedule- but she wouldn’t have it any other way. She did not take a study hall in school because she loved Choir. Her voice was a clear beautiful soprano and she was one of the small group of girls that would be asked to sing the highest notes in the Hallelujah Chorus every Christmas. She graduated from Fairport High School in 2014, ranked number 7 in her graduating class.
She received many awards and scholarships, it was always fun to watch peoples’ reactions at the ceremony when they announced “Colleen Buckley- Attending Indiana University majoring in… Ballet” following all of the other physics, Microbiology etc. She was most proud of the Hands of Christ Award which she received because of her passion and dedication to Altar Serving. Even when she wasn’t scheduled she always asked to serve, and always served Christmas and Easter. She wanted to be an active participant in Mass, and she was truly the Hands of Christ to all she met.
She earned her B.S.(with honors) from Indiana University (Jacobs School of Music) on partial scholarship majoring in Classical Ballet with a concentration in Political Science in just 2.5 years. She wanted to finish school as fast as she could to go on and be a professional ballerina. Her freshman year she was invited home to perform the Sugar Plum Fairy with New York State Ballet. She flawlessly did 12 fouettes on the left. While at IU, she performed in all their productions including Balanchine’s Rubies, Concerto Barocco, and as the Snow Queen in Nutcracker.
She made wonderful friends at IU and taught both children and adult classes at their Ballet Academy. One of her favorite parts of college was the time she spent and projects she worked on with the Christian Student group called the Navigators. She found a community with the same passion for God and service and through her time with them they sparked her fascination and love of the Bible. Her final semester she and her housemates went to a home store and picked up many colorful paint chips. They would write their prayers on a chip and hang it up on a wall in their kitchen, their Prayer Wall. When the prayer was answered they would move the chip across the room to their Blessings Wall.
In the summers she worked at Ballet summer intensives in Milwaukee and Cincinnati.
After her Graduation in December 2016 she came home and Rochester City Ballet kindly hired her as an apprentice. She was grateful and happy to be back in her home studio and doing what she loved. She danced all day and then worked at Chipotle until 11:00/12:00 at night. This whole time she spent several weekends in NYC auditioning for ballet companies.
She was thrilled when she was hired by Ballet Arizona in the Spring of 2017. It was an incredible accomplishment- her first audition season being welcomed into a company, and she set out to live her dream and support herself entirely by her talent and passion. We moved her out to Arizona in our 2007 Toyota Corolla, the car she was still driving, and her dream was set into motion. Everything she had worked for since she could walk and talk. She now was a professional Ballerina. Some of her favorite ballets she performed in were Balanchine’s Serenade, Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Eroica, and of course Nutcracker. She honestly loved them all!
She was a true example of what it meant to be a company member. She not only danced with joy, but continued to share her passion for the art and her glowing light by teaching classes at the School at Ballet Arizona. Her students adored her. She was a guest choreographer at local Universities, she taught Ballet at Dance Conventions and took every opportunity to bring ballet to her community. When she wasn’t dancing, she was enjoying all that Mother Nature had to offer. When she was young she wanted to be an Adirondack 46er,(she was 9 mountains in) so living her dancing dream in Arizona was perfect because of the incredible landscape. She loved riding her bicycle all over Phoenix, hiking, and exploring the beautiful lakes, desert trails and mountains Arizona had to offer her. She was difficult to keep up with!
Colleen was a light and loved by all, but especially her little sister, Michaela. Growing up they were each other’s best friends. They balanced each other perfectly. Colleen’s intelligence and creativity entertained Michaela for hours. When they were playing with friends Colleen had all the ideas and Michaela was her spokesperson. Together, they would get involved in “a really good game” which would last for days, and whenever they did get in arguments or disagree- which happened rarely- the best thing to do would be to ground them from each other. Within 20 minutes they would be back begging to play together again. Their love of performing was evident and Colleen rehearsed for her later professional life by constantly creating and putting on “Shows” together. These often lasted more than an hour and had a complete rehearsal process, costume changes, tickets and concessions.
Colleen was brilliant, compassionate and an embodiment of light. Her talent, work-ethic and intelligence are a part of her, but her kindness and generosity define her. She was always a humble, giving person. She would sit with the kid who was alone in the cafeteria. For her Sweet 16 party she encouraged donations for the Perinton Food Bank instead of gifts. And on Halloween when kids (her sister) would take handfuls of candy out of the “Take 1” buckets, she would put some of her own candy in for the kids who came later. In school, she would always have a pencil for the kid who forgot one–in later years she decided to be evangelical and gave out “Jesus Loves You” pencils. Her money from birthdays or Christmas, was often put into the collection basket at church. In middle school she donated $20 to Haiti relief. That’s just who she was.
Colleen’s light has touched many far and wide. We wish that everyone continues to spread her love and kindness with all. Children, hug your parents. Parents, hug your children. Tell people you love them always.
A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, June 4, 2022, 10:00 AM at St. John of Rochester Catholic Church. The Mass will also be livestreamed: https://www.stjohnfairport.org/live-stream-mass
If possible, please wear green, Colleen’s favorite color and a symbol of hope and rebirth.
In lieu of flowers, we are establishing a scholarship fund at Draper Center for Dance Education in Colleen’s name. The scholarship is for young dancers who have the same passion for dance, work ethic, drive and kindness that Colleen had, to spread her light.
People wishing to donate can send a check made out to “Draper Center for Dance Education” with “Colleen Buckley Scholarship” in the memo line. The address is:
Draper Center for Dance Education
1326 University Avenue
Rochester, NY 14607
Comments
29 responses to “Buckley, Colleen Elizabeth”
Beautiful obituary for a beautiful person. Some of my fondest childhood memories are included here: our four-day long games, our hour-long shows with tickets included, I’d like to think our creative shenanigans were a small part in her journey to becoming the beautiful ballerina she was. Only part missing is how long it took our poor parents to clean the basements after our productions. Almost every outdoor activity I participated in from age 4 to 11, including play school, play camp, the monster game, playing mermaids at the pool; every extensive world I created with Polly-Pockets, Littlest Pet Shop, Barbies; every conception in my mind that made it to the small stage of the guest bedroom or swing set, Colleen was there. And for that, I am grateful.
There are no words to express how very sorry we are for your loss Deb and Ed. Colleen was such a beautiful human being both inside and out. Its is incomprehensible how such a rich and beautiful life could end so soon. Our hearts and deepest sympathy are with you all as you navigate the loss of your beautiful daughter.
“Your light will not be dimmed by the darkness of this world, your laughter will echo in our hearts, and we will think of you every time we hug our children. We weep knowing that a family has been forever changed by the darkness that exists in this world”.
There are no words to express the pain you all are in! The few times I saw Colleen at your family gatherings she always had a smile and was so kind and sweet . My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family!! She truly sounds like she was a light that brighten the world!!
My dear Deb, Ed and Michaela,
Sending my deepest condolences on the passing of beautiful Colleen. I’ve watched her grow up from the tender age of 4. She was such a sweet, loving, shy little girl. I enjoyed her hugs back then and they only got better as she grew up. I always looked forward to seeing her at church; and when she left for college, missed seeing her on the altar. I feel lucky to have been able to spend the time I did with her at PNS. She has a special place in my heart. Sending prayers, love and big hugs to the Buckley family. God bless and comfort you.
Dear Deb,Ed and Michaela
We are all so devastated to hear of Colleen’s tragic passing. She graduated with Andrew and he fondly recalled how she tried to help him in anatomy class. Liana and Michaels were good friends for many years and she often was inspired by Colleen’s talent and unmatched work ethic. We were privileged to witness her brilliance and beauty at dance competitions. Colleen was such a bright light in this often dark world. We pray you can find peace in knowing that Colleen is now with God, whom she loved so very much and forever in the hearts of so many who knew her.
I am heartbroken for you all. I remember Colleen from such a young age at the rec center and PNS, and all through Fairport schools.. Please know that your family will be in my thoughts and prayers constantly. You are not alone in your grief. She was a bright light and a gift to this world.
Deb, Ed, and Michaela, we are so very deeply sorry. Praying for Colleen and all of you. Love and God Bless.
Dear Deb, Ed and Michaela, We are devastated to hear about Colleen. We are truly and completely saddened, and we want you to please know that you’re not alone in your grief. Our whole family is absolutely heartbroken. Our lives have been intertwined for so long, beginning when Meghan and Colleen danced the “Teddy Bear Picnic” together at age 4, and continuing through all the years of carpooling for dance class, conventions, competitions and of course Nutcracker. I can vividly remember Colleen’s beautiful smile when I would pick her up from a four or five hour dance rehearsal, never looking tired, and never once saying anything negative about anybody. She was a precious little girl and a remarkable young woman. Michaela, we are praying for you, as we know that you are experiencing the grief that only a sister can feel. Deb and Ed, we’re sending our love and praying for God to carry you through these hard days. We are so sorry.
My family and I all knew Colleen and to each of us she was a truly special person… I think my daughter said it best “ I met Colleen Hoopes at Cinncinati ballets summer program she was my counselor in 2016 (the best counselor I ever had), She was such a beautiful light in this world and although it has been so long I will never forget the sense of calmness and pure joy she carried with her. It was incredible to watch her soul shine through when she danced, she is such an inspiration to me not just as a dancer but as a person I truly have never met someone so joyful.
My sincerest condolences to the Buckley family I just want you to know what an impact she had on this world ?”
May your faith, family, and memories sustain you all through your time of grief. I know that Colleen’s light will be carried forward by all whose lives were touched by her.
Our family continues to be in shock as we mourn Colleen’s tragic loss. Your obituary is beautiful and so very accurate. Colleen truly was a guiding light for all – a beautiful young lady, both inside and out. We literally watched her grow up at St John of Rochester, where she taught our son to be altar server – a role he cherished based upon her fine instruction and, more importantly, the wonderful example she set. Our hearts are truly broken but we – as I am sure is true with you – are comforted by knowing she is certainly in the embrace of the Lord. God’s blessings to the Buckley family. We are here to support you in any and every way we can. We will never forget Colleen and will always keep her and you in our prayers.
Deb, Ed and Michaela, I wish to express my sincerest condolences and deepest sympathy to you. I feel so lucky to have taught ballet to Colleen when she was young. She would come to class beaming and it was always so clear she would be a ballerina. The energy she brought to her dancing and to life is a magic that will endure. I am sending hugs and prayers and love to you. Michelle Madore
Such a beautiful obituary. It’s rare in today’s world to find someone who truly follows and achieves their dreams, most people lose hope or passion. Colleen was a rarity, her passion and determination remain admirable. I recall our constant summer s’mores nights, playing ghost in the graveyard ( all of us being terrified when Molly joined in) or zecourt (colleens original game). I remember playing mermaids at the pool, dress up, putting on countless plays and more. If arguments or disagreements broke out, Colleen was always the mediator, always working to make everything better. Her humor, creativity, and hard work did not go unnoticed. Often times I found myself wishing I had the drive she did. Though cut short, her life was truly one of a kind filled with passion and kindness. She genuinely touched many and absolutely left this world better than she found it. I am sending many prayers and love your way.
This is a beautiful tribute to a beautiful life. Colleen was so genuinely kind, selfless, and caring— I have many fond memories playing with Colleen & the rest of the neighborhood kids in the summertime, and creating elaborate games in our backyards. Colleen was always so easy to babysit as she was mellow and easy-going— it doesn’t shock me that she was a pleasure to have in class and won so many awards at school. It’s incomprehensible how such a vibrant life could end so soon and under such devastating circumstances. I am so incredibly sorry for your loss and am thinking of your family at this time.
Dear Ed, Debbie, and Mikaela. We’re heart broken to learn of beautiful Colleen’s death. She was the best little Altar Server, and it was a joy to see her on the altar. We can’t even begin to imagine the sorrow and disbelief you are feeling. Please know you’re in our hearts and prayers. Her obituary is truly a lovely tribute to a remarkable young woman. And now she seerves at the altar of her Heavenly Feast. God bless you. Fran and Kathy
I am heartbroken at Colleen’s passing. She was my son’s RA at Cincinnati Ballet’s SI and a he adored her. She was a bright light, an inspiration, and there for my boy when he needed support. Your girl will always be remembered and loved by so many.
I cannot begin to express the sadness my family has felt since we heard about Colleen!!!! As so many have said, there are no words! Your family is in our prayers!!! Our Hearts are broken for you our deepest condolences.
This was such heartbreaking news to hear. I’m still stunned. I remember looking up to her when performing the Nutcracker every year growing up as she always was such a graceful and kind dancer always offering help to others. Also remember alter serving with Colleen often at St. John’s and we were the two professional alter servers (lol) who were always there for Christmas and Easter masses. Colleen’s kindness and memory will live on and sending many prayers out to the entire family.
As I type this it already feels inadequate. I am so deeply sorry for the loss of your incredibly gifted and wonderful daughter Colleen. Her light will live on in all the lives she touched.
Thank you for the beautiful glimpse into Colleen’s life. I had the pleasure of working with Colleen at Ballet Arizona. Her wonderful light, beauty, talent and tenacity made her a delight to work with. I loved how a conversation with Colleen would run a full gambit of emotions. Guffaws and tears were frequent visitors in our talks. Thank you for all the blessings Colleen.. My heart is with her family, friends and fellow artists. We love, adore and miss you.
I remember Colleen as a talented, quiet and beautiful young lady. I followed her career after I left the RAC and I was heartbroken to see the news. She truly was a light. and her memory lives on. I am deeply sorry for your loss.
Ed – words cannot express the sorrow I feel for you and your family. You have been a member of our TEOCO family for many years, and we all feel your loss, deeply. May the beautiful and happy memories of Colleen continue to bring you comfort during this time of sorrow.
With profound shock and grief, I send you my deepest love, prayers and condolences to the whole family at this unimaginably tragic time. Dear Colleen was a personal BLESSING to me for so many years at SJR! She showed herself to be a faithful, responsible and caring leader with all Altar Servers. I never had a Liturgy concern when Colleen was “on duty” at the Altar! Whether a special celebration, a Holy Day or an Ordinary Sunday Mass, all were well performed by Colleen’s attention to detail. More important to me than remembering Colleen’s duties are my cherished memories of her friendly, elegant and loving personality. Watching Colleen grow up from childhood into a strong Christian woman in body, soul and spirit will remain my greatest consolation. I see her “gift of dance” being performed now for the Trinity and all Heaven is celebrating!
Ed , Deb and entire family, my deepest sympathies. You are in my thoughts and you have many friends thinking of you and are all here for support. Call on us any time for any reason. Words cannot express my feelings of sympathy for your family.
I am so sorry for this tragic loss, I was Colleen’s Ballet Professor at Indiana University, she was just wonderful kind and so talented, I am heartbroken and will always have a special place in my heart. I have so many wonderful memories. Sending my deepest condolences to her Mother Father and Sister and all the people who loved her. Love and prayers. Christian
Colleen was my daughter’s Monday ballet teacher at Ballet Arizona. She was a wonderful teacher and the loss is deeply felt by many young girls that treasured every moment with your lovely and positively kind Ms. Colleen. She was absolutely loved and appreciated by all who knew her at Ballet Arizona. She was a brilliant and caring professional. Her loss is heartbreaking. My daughter and her friends will always be blessed by the time she spent teaching them how to become brighter dancers. Her Swan Lake performance was the most moving ballet we had ever encountered.
On behalf of the dancers of Ballet Arizona who had the opportunity to grace the stage with Colleen, thank you for allowing us to be able to attend her service virtually. Colleen’s spirit lives on in each of us, but especially in her students who are dancing this weekend in her honor. She was the brightest of lights in our world, a rare bird, a brilliant dancer, & dedicated servant of God. We are all so blessed to have known her, worked with her, & loved her.
To:
Ed ,Alice and all the extended Buckley family , I would like to extend my deepest felt condolences to you all on the untimely passing of Colleen. Obviously a kind, gentle and talented lady that had much to contribute in this life, but alas that is now to be. On behalf of the Buckley relatives in Ireland our thoughts and prayers are with you all during these dark days. Remember, out of this darkness light will come in time and though Colleen’s life was short , that life will be a guiding beacon for others to be kind, gentle and follow their dreams like Colleen did.
May Colleen Rest in Peace.
Con & Catherine Kirby
Hollytree Drive, Listowel Co.Kerry Ireland
Colleen was as an angel on the stage when she performed at Ballet Arizona! Now she is an Angel on the Heaven! I used to play piano accompaniment for most of her ballet classes. She was an amazing dancer and teacher! She will be missed deeply… Rest in Peace, dear Colleen!