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Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel - Worcester

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Worcester, Massachusetts

John Vecchio Obituary

John Vecchio, 98

Worcester - John Vecchio, aka "Johnnie Radiator", 98, a lifelong Worcester resident, passed away Sunday, July 12, 2020 with the ones he loved at his bedside. He is now joined in heaven with the love of his life, Ann T. (DiSilvestri) Vecchio with whom he spent 53 years of devoted married life until Ann's passing in 2001.

John was born in Worcester, November 2, 1921, the son of Peter and Josephine Vecchio. He was raised and lived his entire life in Worcester's Italian neighborhood off Shrewsbury Street. After high school, John joined the U.S. Army serving his country proudly in the South Pacific, a part of the incursions of the Solomon Islands, Philippine Liberation and notably one of the first units to set foot on the Island of Hiroshima after the nuclear bomb was dropped. John was one of only 13 remaining WWII veterans in Worcester. Upon discharge, John began a career as a radiator mechanic for the Morris Auto Radiator Co., Inc. in Worcester, a company he became a fixture at for over 70 years. Even in retirement, John could be found assisting, advising, and lending a helping hand to Sal.

John and his family were founding members of the Christ Baptist Church on Granby Road in Worcester. John served in many capacities over the years and presently as a Trustee. He was a member of the East Side Post 201 American Legion and a 32nd degree Mason of the Athelstan, now Morningstar Lodge. When his sons were young, John co-founded the Joe DiMaggio Little League and served in its operation for many years. .

A great man with a giant smile, huge heart and calm demeanor, John could be found walking Shrewsbury and Franklin streets daily. Many passersby who knew John would stop to give him a ride but he would always thank the person and keep walking. John's greatest pleasure was taking his family out to dinner.

John is survived by his three devoted sons Joseph Vecchio and his wife Elizabeth (whom he called his "daughter"), Gary Vecchio with whom he lived, all of Worcester, Ron Vecchio and his life partner, Laura Andrews of Holden, six grandchildren whom he was so proud of Lisa Boucher and her husband Jon, Joey, Maria, Nina and Giana Vecchio and Elise Palmieri, three great grandchildren Joshua, Zachary and Kaeliana Boucher, a sister Alice Duncan, in-laws Eleanor Wallace, Grace and Butch Mahoney and Dominic DiSilvestri, extended family and many friends including his closest friends Sal Ventriglia, Jack Toney and Anthony Mancuso. A brother Joseph Vecchio and sister Vincenza Pendergast predeceased him.

Calling hours will be held Thursday, July 16th 2020 from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street, followed by his funeral service at 10:30 AM. Burial next to Ann, with Military Honors, will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. In lieu of flowers, memorial remembrances in his name can be made to Christ Baptist Church, 34 Granby Road, Worcester, MA 01604. Live stream viewing will be available by going to www.mercadantefuneral.com and clicking on live services.

www.mercadantefuneral.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Worcester Telegram & Gazette from Jul. 14 to Jul. 15, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for John Vecchio

Sponsored by Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel - Worcester.

Not sure what to say?





Christine Del'Olio

July 19, 2020

Gary, My sincere condolences on your dad's passing. Sending thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.

SGT Chick WPD Retired

July 19, 2020

Throughout the years, John was like a father to me and always listened to what I had to say. John was a true gentleman and a scholar for his age. Rest in peace old friend, thanks for all the memories.

john caparso

July 19, 2020

I am sorry for your loss.....He was indeed one of the good guys.....

Linda Ferraiuolo DeNittis

July 19, 2020

Joe,

So sorry to read about the passing of your Dad. Sounds like he was quite the man. My deepest sympathies to you and your family.

Linda

Richard Porcaro

July 17, 2020

Joey and Family
Sorry to hear of your Father's passing. I didn't really know him but I found myself at Morris Radiator often as a kid so probably met him there. His obituary speaks of a happy well liked man and WWII Veteran. I'm sure your proud of him. Love ya. Take care.
Richie and Patty Porcaro

Bob Cardoza

July 16, 2020

He wasn't really ticked off when he had to give up drinking wine... he told me it was part of the whole cycle of life.... you will be remembered Johnny Vecchio

Dorene Calmus

July 16, 2020

Dear Joe, Gary and Ronnie,
I just learned of your fathers death. My heart, prayers and thoughts are with you during this time of loss.... I have such fond memories of both your Mother and Dad....it is so true they always had a smile....I trust they are sharing stories with Joe and Lucy!!! My mother ALWAYS would say Ann Vecchio has three sons!! Do you ever hear her yelling? As she was scolding my sisters and I. Sending caring, loving thoughts....

Rich Mall

July 16, 2020

Joe and Family,
Rich and I were sorry to hear of your dads passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at such a sad time.
Sincerely,
Rich and Cathy Mall

Fran Peterson

July 16, 2020

I am very sorry for your loss. John was a great guy!
Fran Peterson

Richard Houle

July 16, 2020

Joe and family, sorry for your loss, John will be in our prayers,rest in peace.

Ronnie & Janice De Fusco

July 16, 2020

Joe, Gary, Ronnie, your father is the image of what a husband, father, friend should be. His character and personality was one of his most precious commodities. He gave this life a good run, and now he is with love of his life enjoying peace. We will cherish his memory and honor of knowing him.

Pat

July 16, 2020

So sorry to hear of John's passing, he was such a really nice man. Met him at church and loved going to church just to see his smiling face. May he rest in peace.

Mike Daboul

July 16, 2020

Gary, Joe and Ron
I am very sorry for your loss. Your Dad was a great man...and always with that no stop smile! May he rest in peace.

Rob and Laurie Bridges

July 15, 2020

Alyce Duncan and Cheryl Mercadante- we are truly sorry to hear of the loss of your brother and uncle. Alyce - he now lives in you! We love you sweet lady! And Cheryl, my dear friend, carry on the laughter he shared with you. Love you Thelma!
Our thoughts and prayers are with you both today, tomorrow and always ❤

Lenny Ciuffredo

July 15, 2020

Dear Gary, Ron & Family,
Our thoughts & prayers are with you all during this sad time. John was a true gentleman and will be missed by many. Another one of The Greatest Generation has gone home. May he rest in peace.

Love & Prayers
Lenny & Julie Ciuffredo

Carol Lapomardo

July 15, 2020

Dear Gary, My deepest sympathy for the loss of your father. God's love and peace be with you and your family during this difficult time. May he rest in peace.

Carol Lapomardo

Tony/Chris Dellomo

July 15, 2020

Joe, Gary, Ron

So sorry of your dads passing. A giant of a man with a big heart for everyone.
Our deepest sympathies to you and your families. may he rest in peace with his beloved wife

Paula Rocco

July 15, 2020

So sorry to hear of your Dads passing. What a wonderful man he was. Cherish all those fond memories of him I know I will. He will forever be in my thoughts and prayers. Paula Rocco

Patrick DeSantis

July 15, 2020

To the Vecchio Family:
So sorry to hear of the loss of your Dad.
Johnny was a remarkable man.

I had the good fortune to meet your father when I was eighteen.
I worked at Henrys Trim Shop next to Morris Radiator and shared many good laughs with him.
He was well liked by many friends.

Pat DeSantis

Joe Pauk

July 15, 2020

one of the nicestguys i ever met ,met him through sal ventriglia, he was there when i lost my wife 10 yrs ago and always had comforting news to make you comfortable. He was always comfortable being with. Jack Toney i know was a great friend along with sal and tony and they all made johnny there priority, sorry i cannot attend services have appts. prescheduled,definitely will never forget john i asked him once if he wanted ride ,no thanks i,ll see you later, i know he enjoyed Elisa,s weeding last year up on dance floor with all the girls and sal and i tried to drag him off dance floor and calm down for few minutes . Wish you all the best . Joe Pauk--Oxford,Ma.

Rich Mercadante

July 15, 2020

Growing up in The Neighborhood, I remember John walking, smiling and always ready to chat. But, my fondest memories were at Christ Baptist Church where he was never afraid to offer his opinion, but always ready to lend a hand when needed. As he grew older his favorite saying was I remember when and a story would follow. I fondly remember when we would slip away from a Church function along with Tony for a sip of wine and a chat. Our condolences to the family and to all of us for another member of a generation gone home.
Rich and Gail Mercadante
Weeki Wachee, Florida

Ralph Tomaiolo

July 15, 2020

Joe, Gary & Ronnie, I'm sad to hear about the loss of your father. My sincere condolences go out to you & your family. He was a good man and will truly be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you...

Michele Pasquarose McGer

July 15, 2020

Gary,
I am sorry to learn of your father's passing. What an impressive life he led! You must be so proud. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Michele Pasquarose McGee

Jonathan Miller

July 15, 2020

So sorry for your loss! He was the best.

John-Michael DiLiddo

July 15, 2020

Gary, My sincere condolences to you and your family, will be in our thoughts and prayers.

Darlyn Bezdegian

July 15, 2020

Rest in peace little buddy.You will be missed.Love you.

Paul Pezzella

July 15, 2020

Gary please enjoy all the memories that you had with your dad . You are and were a remarkable son .
I always enjoyed our conversations with John.
With best wishes to you and your family.

Paul and Tony Locantore

July 15, 2020

Gary and family sorry for you loss of a good father.
I will keep you and family in my prayers.

Joanne Colombo

July 15, 2020

Dear Gary and family,
I am very sorry to hear about your Dad's passing...
May the memories you all created with him, gives you peace till you all can be together again...

Vin Giarusso

July 15, 2020

Joe, Gary and Ronnie

Bev and I were so sorry to read of Johnny's death. I have so many nice memories of your dad while growing up as your neighbor. Whenever you would meet him John had a quick smile and a warm greeting. I will always appreciate his many kindnesses to my dad. Our very deepest sympathy to you and your families.

Vin and Bev Giarusso
West Boylston

Maryann (Losapio) Aslanian

July 15, 2020

Dear Gary and Family: So sorry for your loss. We shall miss him walking Shrewsbury Street and Seth talking with him occasionally. May he rest in Peace alongside his beloved wife Ann.
Seth & Mary Ann Aslanian

Paul Giorgio

July 15, 2020

Joe,Gary &ronnie. So sorry for your loss. Enjoyed my talks with your dD when I would call the house

Bob DeFosse

July 15, 2020

Joe and Liz, so sorry for your loss.

lou DeSantis

July 14, 2020

John and family have been neighbors in the true sense of the word. He always shared a smile along with a sincere inquiry about another neighbor or friend. He cared. Rest in peace.................Lou DeSantis

Bob, Diane, Chris and Cheryl Gauthier

July 14, 2020

Gary and family, We are so sorry to hear of the passing of your father. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and John during this time of sorrow. Our condolences and sympathy to you and the family.

Elaine DeCaro

July 14, 2020

Gary , Joe Vec,and Ron, So sorry for the loss of your father.He was a man with the biggest smile and kind soul. Loved his family, walking and the people of Shrewsbury street,his neighborhood. We have lost a wonderful man and he has gone to be with his family in heaven. Our deepest condolences to you and your family.. Rest in peace, Elaine and Frank DeCaro

Bob & Chris Cuccaro

July 14, 2020

Joe, Gary, Ronnie & Families, heaven just became a better place. A special man, giant among men who left a legacy of fun, friendship, love, and respect. I think what will always stay with me, aside from some very funny memories, is the enormous respect I had for John. Plus the memory of how respectful he was of everyone he knew. I was a better person and fortunate to have had the honor to have known him. God Bless him and all of his family.

Eternal Friendship Remembrance Bouquet - VASE INCLUDED

DD Samay

Sent Flowers

Suzie Tavano

July 14, 2020

Gary, My sincere condolences to you and your family on the loss of your father. May the happy memories you've shared comfort you in the difficult days ahead. May he Rest In Eternal Peace.

Helen Deignan

July 14, 2020

Maria: So sorry for your loss. My heartfelt sympathy to you and your family on the passing of your Grandfather. Please know that you are all in my prayers.
(Judy's Mom) Helen

Judy Royal

July 14, 2020

Maria and family, My deepest condolences on the loss of your grandfather. May you find strength & comfort from each other during the difficult days ahead. My thoughts are with you.

Sal Connie and Angela Amoroso

July 14, 2020

Our deepest sympathy John was a wonderful person to know so happy to have him in our lives

Bob Dell'Olio

July 14, 2020

Gary, Joe & Ron,
your father was someone it has been my privilege to know most of my life. I will miss our greetings and chats as he walked our neighborhood.
You have my sincerest sympathies,

Gene DellOlio

July 14, 2020

Great neighbor and just a lovable person to know.

Carl gentile worcester mass

July 14, 2020

Prayers for John!! A. Great man!! R.i.p

Mary Pace

July 14, 2020

Ron and family.
I am so sorry for your loss of the cutest man ever! He always brought a smile to my face with that twinkle in his eyes. May all your wonderful memories help you through this difficult time. He is with his Chick now. Know that they are both smiling down on you all!!

Cathy Simone

July 13, 2020

To the Vecchio Boys and there Families your Dad was a first class Gentleman need I say more my prayers are with you all may he Rest In Peace. Babe and Cathy Simone.

Gary Deberardinis

July 13, 2020

We are sad to hear of Johnnie's passing. He was always so kind to me and quick with a joke. I will cherish all the memories I have of him. Prayers to his family and friends.

Christine Miller

July 13, 2020

I am so sorry for the loss of your dad. John was a great man.
Christine Miller

Joseph Pslermo

July 13, 2020

Joe, Gary, Ronnie, and family,
I was saddened to hear of your dad's passing.My thoughts and prayers are with him and all of you at this most difficult time. It was always a pleasure to stop and chat with him on his daily walks He was a good man and will be missed by all.
Please accept my condolences and deepest sympathy.
Joe Palermo

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9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel - Worcester

370 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605

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Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel - Worcester

370 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605

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Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel - Worcester

370 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605

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