Michael Martucci Jr.

Michael A. Martucci, Jr., 87, of Lower Saucon Twp., died Friday, October 5, 2012, in his home. He was the husband of the late Louise P. (Orefice) Martucci, who died in 1996. Born in Bethlehem, he was the son of the late Michael A. Martucci, Sr., and Genoveffa (Cacciacario) Martucci. He honorably served his country in the US Army, during WWII. Michael worked for Bethlehem Steel, in the treatment shop for 10 years, and later, he and his wife, owned and operated the Grotto Restaurant in Bethlehem for 48 years, until retiring. Highlights during their proprietorship included the Good Neighbor Award from Lehigh University, many positive articles written in local newspapers, and the noteworthy clientele and generations of families who frequented the restaurant. He was well known and loved by all. Michael and Louise visited many places world-wide including the Middle East, most of Europe and many of the Mediterranean and Caribbean islands. But, the most memorable and talked about period was the audience with Pope John Paul and visits with relatives in Italy. Michael was a member of the former Our Lady of Pompeii Church, and currently was a member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church. He was also a member of the Sons of Italy. Besides spending time with his family, Michael enjoyed rooting for the Philadelphia Phillies, his trips to the casino and going to his beach house with his family in Longport, NJ. Survivors: He will be lovingly remembered by his daughter, Genie and husband John Hanchick, Jr.; son, Jim Martucci and his wife, Patricia all of Bethlehem Twp.; grandchildren, John and wife Liane, Susan and husband Kelly, Brian and wife Patty, and Krisy; great-grandchildren, Kyle, Ryan, Kelsey, Ashly and Aidan; brother Nicholas Martucci of Bethlehem. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Services: On Wednesday, October 10. The family will receive relatives and friends from 9 to 11 a.m. in Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. The church is located at, 3219 Santee Rd., Bethlehem Twp. Interment will be in Holy Saviour Cemetery. Contributions: In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the church and/or St. Jude Childrens Hospital, 501 St. Jude Pl., Memphis, TN 38105 in Michaels memory. His arrangements are entrusted to Cantelmi Funeral Home, 1311 Broadway, Fountain Hill. Online condolences at www.cantelmifuneralhome.com.