TriCircle Memorial Scholarship
TriCircle is proud to offer $1,000 scholarships to two students for the upcoming academic year.
Our Memorial Scholarship is open to Connecticut residents who
• Have been significantly impacted by alcohol/substance use by self or a close family member/friend
• Have been accepted into, or are continuing, their post-high school education at an accredited institution
• Have not previously won this award
Or, pick up an application at our office, 116 South Main Street, Wallingford, CT.
Applications (a signed, completed application with all supporting documentation) must be received in one email or mailed in one packet postmarked no later than June 1st to be considered.
If honoring your loved one lost to a substance-related death through this scholarship feels meaningful, please reach out to us.
This scholarship opportunity was originally created in honor of Michael F. Gagnon, II.
Our process of narrowing down a large applicant pool is a challenging one, especially when it is composed of many wonderful submissions. The Memorial Scholarship Committee extends a warm thank you to all our applicants and we wish each of you a successful school year. Together, WE are Stronger!
In Memory Of...
Benjamin Robert Iliff
To describe Ben (2/13/1990 - 1/11/2019) is easy! He was funny, kind, polite, helpful, eager, intelligent, wise beyond his years, interesting, fun, creative, artistic, articulate, mechanically inclined beyond belief, silly and tons of fun. As a child, he had an insatiable, high-octane curiosity that was second to none! Ben made his transition at the age of 28 due to a fentanyl overdose. He is loved beyond measure and missed every minute of every day.
Raianna Maria Perez
Rai (12/16/1994 - 12/25/2021) was a free spirit who loved life to its fullest, no fears, and loved everyone without judgment. She loved to sing, dance, & spend time with her family. Rai was always the light that entered a room. Forever missed, and Forever 27.
Philip P. Lyons
Philip (11/11/1988 - 7/30/2020) passed away on at the age of 31 from an accidental heroin overdose (laced with fentanyl). From Philip's mother, "The heartbreak and anguish over the tragedy of losing my oldest son motivated me to create Philip’s Foundation, Inc. Our mission is to raise money to support non-profit organizations who offer treatment, counseling, and support to individuals and families who suffer from the disease of addiction. I also hope to bring a voice and be a support to those lonely, isolated and traumatized mothers, fathers and family members who have suffered the indescribable pain the disease of addiction leaves in its wake."
Christopher Yelmini
Christopher (11/24/1986 - 8/15/2011) passed away at 24 after battling the disease of addiction for several years. He planned a career as an electrician. Life got in the way, and destiny had other plans for Christopher. It is important that his dreams may live on and be fulfilled by those who know the impact that substance abuse can have on a fragile life. Chris was always there with a helping hand and a smile on his face. His loss has left a hole in our lives and in our hearts that can never be filled. We hope that his legacy will help others succeed on their paths.
Luke Hopkins Bialobrzeski
Luke (2/25/1987 - 9/5/2015) loved life, his family and friends. His personality was larger than life and his faith deep and sincere. He was a skilled carpenter and craftsman who gave freely of his time and talents to his family. From early childhood, Luke excelled academically. While attending UConn, he majored in Psychology and was on the Dean’s list every semester he was there, in spite of his addiction. Luke loved to read and was a talented artist and cook. He loved golf, snowboarding, backgammon and the Patriots. Luke always enjoyed a spirited conversation on any topic, especially politics. He made sure his brothers and parents gathered on Sunday for a meal and great conversation. Most of all, Luke was kind and embodied the spirit of generosity. He always preferred to give than to receive. Luke fought hard with his addiction but in the end his God said, "Son, you have done enough. Its time to come home."
Kyle M. Fitzgerald
Kyle was 25 years old when he lost his battle to SUD, on 3/22/2013. Kyle loved life and was following his dream of being a Seafarer in the Merchant Marine Academy in Piney Point Maryland. His passions also included writing and making beats for fun. Kyle was a fun-loving young adult who loved to find humor and make others laugh. In honor of Kyle, we are including him in the Memorial Scholarship Fund for the Trades.
Matthew K. Fitzgerald
Matthew was 32 years old when his life abruptly ended on 9/14/2017. Matthew struggled with mental health and addiction and lost his battle with SUD. Matthew was following his passion of being a plumber and was working on his journeyman license in the trades. He loved his daughter deeply and tried his best at recovery. Although Matthew battled with his own struggles, he was always helpful and compassionate to others fighting the disease. In honor of Matthew, we are including him in the Memorial Scholarship Fund for the Trades.
Michael F. Gagnon II
Michael (4/5/1995 - 7/17/2017) lost his life from fentanyl poisoning at the age of 22. Michael always was a gentle kind soul even when life for him was hard. He had a great sense of humor and loved all genres of music. He was a friend to all, and he would be so proud to see how this scholarship has grown to help.
Richard Mavricz
Richard (2/25/1976 - 7/30/2007) collected classical books, loved Einstein and the Grateful Dead. Brilliant mind and beautiful soul. He loved his job as a landscape artist, and was kind to everyone. He is missed every day by his family and friends.
Preston Wagner
Preston (9/23/2000 - 12/19/2018) was described by friends as someone who always wanted everyone to be kind to each other. He taught himself the guitar and played Pink Floyd. Preston loved his family and was working to become an EMT because he liked helping people
Kevin Michael Gryckiewicz
Kevin (3/6/1989-9/2/2025) had a sweet, angelic gaze with puppydog eyes. His gentle way of presenting himself with the soft and respectful tone he had made you like him and want to get to know him. He was hardworking and could figure out how things went together, He would tease and make you laugh, but never demean you. He was kind and helpful and would hold doors open for people and help them if needed. He loved to play basketball, go for walks, watch the sunrise, ride rollercoasters, listen to rock & metal music , and spend time with Mellow, his cat. His hat and sneakers had to match. Working with his dad and brother were a gift. And Jesus was always hanging around his neck.
Richard Mavricz
Richard Mavricz (2/25/1976-7/30/2007) collected classical books, loved Einstein and the Grateful Dead. Brilliant mind and beautiful soul. He loved his job as a landscape artist. Was kind to everyone. Missed every day by his family and friends.
Michael F. Gagnon II
Michael F Gagnon II lost his life from fentanyl poisoning at the age of 22. Michael always was a gentle kind soul even when life for him was hard. He had a great sense of humor and loved all genres of music. He was a friend to all, and he would be so proud to see how this scholarship has grown to help.
Christopher Yelmini
Christopher Yelmini passed away at 24 in 2011 after battling the disease of addiction for several years. He planned a career as an electrician. Life got in the way, and destiny had other plans for Christopher. It is important that his dreams may live on and be fulfilled by those who know the impact that substance abuse can have on a fragile life. Chris was always there with a helping hand and a smile on his face. His loss has left a hole in our lives and in our hearts that can never be filled. We hope that his legacy will help others succeed on their paths.
Kyle M. Fitzgerald
Kyle M. Fitzgerald was 25 years old when he lost his battle to SUD, on 3/22/2013. Kyle loved life and was following his dream of being a Seafarer in the Merchant Marine Academy in Piney Point Maryland. His passions also included writing and making beats for fun. Kyle was a fun-loving young adult who loved to find humor and make others laugh. In honor of Kyle, we are including him in the Memorial Scholarship Fund for the Trades.
Matthew K. Fitzgerald
Matthew K. Fitzgerald was 32 years old when his life abruptly ended on 9/4/2017. Matthew struggled with mental health and addiction and lost his battle with SUD. Matthew was following his passion of being a plumber and was working on his journeyman license in the trades. He loved his daughter deeply and tried his best at recovery. Although Matthew battled with his own struggles, he was always helpful and compassionate to others fighting the disease. In honor of Matthew, we are including him in the Memorial Scholarship Fund for the Trades.
Luke Hopkins Bialobrzeski
Luke loved life, his family and friends. His personality was larger than life and his faith deep and sincere. He was a skilled carpenter and craftsman who gave freely of his time and talents to his family. From early childhood, Luke excelled academically. While attending UConn, he majored in Psychology and was on the Dean’s list every semester he was there, in spite of his addiction. Luke loved to read and was a talented artist and cook. He loved golf, snowboarding, backgammon and the Patriots. Luke always enjoyed a spirited conversation on any topic, especially politics. He made sure his brothers and parents gathered on Sunday for a meal and great conversation. Most of all, Luke was kind and embodied the spirit of generosity. He always preferred to give than to receive. Luke fought hard with his addiction but in the end his God said Son, you have done enough. Its time to come home. This scholarship is in his memory and to honor his life.
Preston Wagner
Preston Wagner 9/23/00-12/19/18 described by friends as someone who always wanted everyone to be kind to each other. Taught himself the guitar and played Pink Floyd. Loved his family and was working to become an EMT because he liked helping people.