George N. Vessio

George N. Vessio, 80, of Worcester, fell asleep in the Lord, surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, July 5, 2008 at Holy Trinity Nursing Center.

Born to James and Olimbia Mitti of Jamestown, N.Y., he was predeceased by his parents, Nicholas and Theodora Vessio, sisters Harriette and Lillian, and brother James.

He leaves his loving wife of 52 years, Constance (Belba) Vessio, three sons, Peter and wife Mary of Worcester; Paul and wife Fiona of Leicester; and Steven and wife Karen of Worcester; grandchildren Amanda, Kimberley, Nicholas and Joshua; and great-grandson, Tristan; many nieces and nephews; and many close and loving friends.

In his youth, George was very dedicated to church fundraising efforts. He was in charge of dances and social functions, and creating backdrops and scenery for church events.

After serving in World War II in the U.S. Navy, George's deep love of art brought him to study under Frank Porsman, and work in cartooning in N.Y. with hopes of expanding an artistic career.

He came back to Worcester to run the family business, Vessio's Market, on Belmont St for many years. He later returned to his love of art and creativity starting Eagle Remodeling.

In his retirement, George worked closely for countless hours with commissioned iconographer, Dimitri Cika, at St. Mary's Albanian Orthodox Church, installing the beautiful holy icons that grace the church, a project that spanned over five years.

When St Mary's was built, he was clerk of the works for the church interior. He was a member of the Sea Scouts, the Ionic Ave. Boys Club, the Nano-Peristere American Legion Post 453 and Sons of St Mary's.

He received the Knights of St. George Medal in 2006, one of the highest honors bestowed upon a lay person of the church.

George was an avid gardener creating a Tuscan villa atmosphere at his home with flowers, plants, arbors and koi ponds.

There are calling hours Tuesday, July 8 from 5 to 8 p.m. in St. Mary's Albanian Orthodox Church, 535 Salisbury St., Worcester. The funeral service will be Wednesday, July 9 at 10 a.m. in the church. Burial will be in Hope Cemetery, Worcester.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial contributions may be sent to St. Mary's Albanian Orthodox Church, 535 Salisbury St, Worcester, MA 01609.

The Athy Memorial Home, 111 Lancaster St., Worcester, is directing arrangements.