Shrewsbury – Angelo “Tony” Pacillo, 92, peacefully passed away Saturday, June 20, 2015 at his home in Shrewsbury, with his wife and children at his side.
He will be dearly missed by his wife of 67 years, Elizabeth “Bette” (Moore) Pacillo, and his five children, Jean Scott, Raymond Pacillo, Joanne D’Errico, and Maribeth Pacillo, all of Shrewsbury, and Anthony Pacillo of Cambridge, as well as his four grandchildren, Michael D’Errico, Andrew D’Errico, Jennifer Pacillo, and Lucia Scott; two great-grandchildren, Massimo and Gianni D’Errico; a brother, Matthew Pacillo of Las Vegas; a sister, Dorothy Riggieri of Worcester; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by two brothers, Giovanni and Michael Pacillo.
Born May 23, 1923, Tony was the first son of Italian immigrants, Sante and Celestina (Candelmo), and grew up in the Shrewsbury Street neighborhood of Worcester. He loved reminiscing about 10 cent hot dogs at Homer’s Lunch, picking dandelions for his mother’s salads, and hand rolling cigarettes for his father, always making sure to keep a few for himself, of course. He proudly served in World War II as a Private First Class in the United States Army from 1943 to 1945.
Tony was the proprietor of Chandler Auto Body on Shrewsbury Street. His strong work ethic inspired his children, as well as his generosity and kindness to anyone in need.
Tony married Bette in 1948, and they spent their lives surrounded by friends and family. The Pacillos house in Shrewsbury was always filled with laughter, card games, and great Italian food. Tony was happy to welcome everyone into his home, and his sharp sense of humor made guests feel like they were instantly a part of our family.
He was so incredibly proud of his family, and loved spending time with them. He never minced words and taught us countless life lessons that focused on strong values, helping others, and being grateful.
Relatives and friends are invited to join his family for calling hours Wednesday, June 24, from 4-7 p.m., at the Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel, 370 Plantation St., Worcester. His funeral Mass will be celebrated Thursday, June 25, at 10 a.m., in Saint Anne’s Church, 120 Boston Tpke. (Route 9), Shrewsbury. Interment will follow in Mountain View Cemetery of Shrewsbury.
To leave a message on the online register, visit www.mercadantefuneral.com.
