Vincent F. Dattilio

Vincent F. "Vinny" Dattilio, 91, of South Burlington, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 29, 2025, at the University of Vermont Medical Center, surrounded by family.

Born on May 3, 1934, in Burlington, VT, Vince was the youngest child of the late Cosmo and Libera (Martello) Dattilio. He graduated from Burlington High School, Class of 1953. On August 20, 1955, he married the love of his life, Elizabeth Van Dusen, in St. Patrick's Cathedral in Burlington. They settled in South Burlington where they made their home and raised their family. They were devoted to one another for 69 years. Betty predeceased him just 11 weeks ago-proof, some say, that you really can die from a broken heart.

Vince's professional life was filled with achievement. He earned multiple certifications in both engine mechanics and jet aircraft technology. While in high school, he helped build the scale model of the steamship Ticonderoga, now on display at the Shelburne Museum. He proudly served in the Vermont Air National Guard for 16 years, and after his time there, he opened Dattilio's Sunoco in South Burlington in 1966. For decades, Vince served the community with laughter, friendship, and a friendly presence-always holding court on his stool at the station, entertaining customers right up through this past year.

An avid outdoorsman, Vince's deep love of hunting, fishing, and nature brought him joy throughout his life. Just two years ago, he bagged his last buck and released his last trout. Time spent in the woods or on the water was his refuge, and those who shared these moments with him now carry stories for a lifetime.

Above all, Vince treasured his family. Holiday gatherings at his home were his pride and joy. He will be deeply missed by all who had the good fortune to know him-truly, he was one of a kind.

He is survived by his son, James Dattilio Sr., and his wife Monica of Williston, VT; his daughter, Lynda, and her wife Krista of Lovettsville, VA; his grandchildren, Katie Dattilio of Williamstown, VT, Christina Seward and her husband Ben of Milton, VT, and James Dattilio Jr. and his fiancée Kayla of Fairfax, VT; and great-grandsons Bentley Seward and his namesake, Vincent "Vinny" Dattilio.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, July 9th from 5-7 PM at Ready Funeral Home, 261 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, July 10th at 11 AM at St. John Vianney Church in South Burlington, with interment to follow in Resurrection Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Lake Champlain International (www.mychamplain.net/donate) and/or the Chittenden County Fish and Game Club c/o Richard Bissonette, 606 Meadowbend Road, Williston, VT 05495.

Arrangements are in the care of Ready Funeral & Cremation Services.