John J. Catallozzi

John J. Catallozzi, 92, of Shrewsbury, formerly a longtime resident of Leominster, passed away peacefully surrounded by family, Wednesday, October 1, 2025, after a brief period of declining health.

John was born in Worcester, the son of Alfredo and Esther (Testa) Catallozzi. Raised in Worcester, he joined the U.S. Army serving his country proudly. Upon discharge and return home, he then earned his bachelor’s degree from UMass Lowell and his Masters and doctorate degrees in Education from Boston University. John went on to spend his career shaping young minds at the University of Massachusetts Lowell as a professor before retiring. When not teaching his students, John was an accomplished musician, playing the piano as part of several popular blues and jazz bands in and around New England. Notably, his favorite artists in music were Tony Bennet, Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin.

John is survived by a sister, Anna Ciociolo Leach in Nevada; a sister in law, Marilea Catallozzi of Shrewsbury; his longtime friend and neighbor Al Dean of Leominster; and three generations of nieces, nephews and extended family members. He was predeceased by his brothers Edmund Catallozzi and David Catallozzi and his sister, Dorothy Morrissey.

John, gifted in two careers. loved both. He found great pride in teaching his students and got extreme enjoyment from playing music and entertaining a crowd. He also enjoyed the many times he would attend entertainment venues, including the Hanover, DCU, Cape Cod Melody and South Shore Melody Tents to see his favorite artists or be entertained by musical plays or productions. Family was also very important to John. He enjoyed hosting family pool parties at his home on July 4th and gathering together for all holidays where he was usually the life of the party, leading the family sing along and telling stories. Holidays, special occasions, family dinners will always be remembered as special times in his life. John also had a love of flying - a passion he shared with his brother Eddie – and took pride in getting his pilot’s license.

The Catallozzi family would like to express their gratitude to the Live Well Eldercare Management, Benchmark at Shrewsbury Crossing, Notre Dame Hospice and Senior Helpers of Worcester for all the care, compassion and comfort they gave to John.

Friends and relatives are in invited to calling hours for John, Tuesday, October 7th from 5 pm to 7 pm in the in the MERCDANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. His funeral service will be held Wednesday, October 8th at 10:00 am in the funeral home. Burial with Military honors will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton. In lieu of flowers, memorial remembrances in his name can be made to the activity fund, care of Benchmark Senior Living at Shrewsbury Crossing, 311 Main St Shrewsbury.