John A. Bertini

Obituary
SALEM – Mr. John A. Bertini 78, of Salem, beloved husband of Pauline (Cashman) Bertini, a well-known Salem Restaurateur, died peacefully, October 7th, 2023, with his loving family by his side.
Born in Salem, he was the son of the late Charles and Esther (Viselli) Bertini. He was raised and educated in Salem and was a graduate of Salem High School, Class of 1962. He continued his education attending Bentley University.
Mr. Bertini was the 40-year owner and operator of Bertini's Restaurant, his family's Italian Cuisine generational eatery. He was honored to carry on the legacy his family started in 1943. From the young age of 14, John held every position in the Bertini establishment over his illustrious career. From chief cook to bottle washer, to bartender to owner, John delighted in being a part of many of Salem families' celebrations through his welcoming and jovial demeanor. Countless patrons have called Bert's a second home and John was an extended member of their clan. He was ultimately proud of the Bertini family's place in the City of Salem's fabric and history.
A truly astute business man, in addition to the restaurant business, Mr. Bertini was a successful real estate developer. He had a keen sense of the future all the while keeping the neighborhood and its people in mind.
When not at the restaurant (which was rare), John enjoyed playing golf, swimming and water skiing. He loved games of chance and more often than not, lady luck was on his side. He relished countless trips to Mohegan Sun and loved to play poker. He was funny, caring, would break out in song and dance at the drop of a hat and above all else was devoted to his wife, children and grandchildren. A kind and gentle man, John was beloved by all.
John is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Pauline (Cashman) Bertini of Salem, his children, Andrea Bertini and her wife, Diana Schwartz of Northhampton, Jessica Bertini and her husband, Robert Buxton of Bedford, NH and John Bertini and his wife, Jessica of Salem, his grandchildren, Charlie and Joseph Bertini, Anna and Nora Buxton and Juliette and Olivia Bertini, his sister-in-law, Anna (Flynn) Bertini of Danvers, several nieces, nephews and the legions of employees, whom he treated like family and loved dearly. He was the brother of the late Frank Bertini.
ARRANGEMENTS: His funeral service will be held at O'Donnell Cremations – Funerals – Celebrations, 84 Washington Sq., (at Salem Common) SALEM, Friday, Oct. 13th at 11 A.M. Relatives and friends invited. Burial is private. Visiting hours Thursday, Oct. 12th from 4 to 7 P.M. Expressions of sympathy may be made in John's memory to the Alzheimer's Association, MA Chapter, 309 Wavery Oaks Rd., Waltham, MA 02452. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit www.odonnellfuneralservice.com
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