Louis R. Pitas

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Louis Robert Pitas, a beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, who passed away peacefully on December 25, 2024, at the age of 81, after a courageous 18-year battle with Parkinson's disease. Born on June 27, 1943, in South Attleboro, Massachusetts, Louis lived a life defined by his boundless curiosity and ingenuity. Over the years, he mastered every trade involved in the building of homes, learning from the skilled craftsmen he worked alongside. His talent for fixing things wasn't limited to homes though – he could repair household appliances, cars and trucks, heavy machinery, radios, televisions, and even the computers he built from scratch as an early adopter of personal computing. Those that knew Louie knew that if something was broken, he could fix it (usually with parts and tools he somehow always had in the back of his Suburban).
Beyond his love for mechanics, Louie had a great sense of adventure. Winters were spent skiing or snowmobiling in Maine and New Hampshire, while summers brought him to the family's cabin in Maine, where he taught his children to canoe and water ski. Louie also enjoyed fishing-both fresh and saltwater-and often launched the family's 17-foot boat from Colt State Park. He explored the depths through SCUBA diving in his 60s and soared the skies by skydiving, embracing life's adventures from sea, air, and land. These moments were often captured on film, as he was an avid photographer who loved preserving memories.
Louie shared his skills and passions generously with others. In the 1980s, he helped build a playground at Hill Roberts Elementary School and volunteered with the Massachusetts 4-H horse program during and after his daughter's involvement. He also gave his children a life-long love of shooting sports, but spanning a lifetime with the whole family attending training together as recently as 2018.
Beyond his hobbies and volunteer work, Louie was a lifelong learner. He once attended a lecture by the renowned physicist Niels Bohr at MIT, and his curiosity about the world inspired those around him. A proud graduate of Attleboro High School's Class of 1961, Louie later took a computer course at Bryant University, encouraging his children to explore the burgeoning field of computer science. His dedication to fostering knowledge and self-sufficiency in his family leaves a lasting legacy.
Louis "Louie" Pitas was a devoted family man, the beloved son of the late Irene (St. George) and William Pitas Sr. He was the cherished brother of Marilyn McDeed (widow of Henry), Barbara Bergeron (widow of Rudolph), William Pitas Jr. and his wife Sandra, and the late John Pitas and his late wife Nancy. Louie is survived by his children: Robert Pitas Sr. (widower of Mia Puzo), Michael Pitas, and Marlana Harrison (wife of Scott Harrison). He was a proud grandfather to Rob Pitas Jr., Alexis Jordan-Pitas, and Carmela Pitas (children of Robert Sr.), as well as Madeleine, Mikayla, and Matthew Pitas (children of Michael).
Louie also leaves behind his devoted companion of 23 years, Joan Wild, who lovingly cared for him throughout his illness. He was a meaningful presence in the lives of Joan's children, Ken and Stacie Wild, and their children, Wesley and Cordelia Wild; as well as Robyn Wild-Panico and her children, Alyssa and Nick, with whom he shared many cherished memories.
Additionally, Louie is survived by his former wife, Joan (Maczuga) Pitas, with whom he maintained a lifelong bond, and he is fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews.
A lifetime member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks, Lodge 1014, Louie was a natural leader and a steadfast presence in his community. Louis was a member of St. Theresa's Church in South Attleborough. His life was a testament to the power of hard work, ambition, and a willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.
Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Friday, January 3, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Sperry & McHoul Funeral Home, 15 Grove Street, North Attleborough, MA. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, January 4,2025 at 10:00 AM at Sperry & McHoul Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Newell Burying Grounds, 1502 West St, South Attleboro, MA.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA), a leading organization supporting individuals affected by Parkinson's disease through services, education, and research. Please help end this disease that has impacted so many families. PO Box 114098, North Providence, RI 02911. Online donations can be made at Donate to Our Rhode Island Chapter | APDA Rhode Island. Additionally, contributions may be made to Hope Health Hospice and Palliative Care, 1085 North Main Street, Providence, RI 02904. Online contributions can be made at HopeHealth Donations.
Louis Pitas built more than houses; he built a legacy of kindness and unwavering generosity. Though his tools now rest, we envision him in heaven, finding joy in mending what is broken and building happiness atop a foundation of selflessness and compassion. His legacy will endure in every heart he touched and every life he inspired.