July 24, 1951 – Feb. 16, 2022
Shrewsbury – “Vodka Martini, straight up, one olive…only one olive.”
Peacefully and surrounded by his family, Gregory Robert Califano passed away on February 16, 2022, at the age of 70.
He leaves a huge hole in the hearts of his family and friends, who always loved to hear his stories and be entertained by his cynical sense of humor. He was truly an original.
Greg was a New Jersey state champion gymnast during his Wall High School years and continued his gymnastic career as a member of the Springfield College gymnastics team. After college, Greg began his professional career in the advertising business, advancing to vice president at the McCaffrey & McCall advertising agency in New York City, where he met his beloved wife, Elizabeth of 40 years.
Greg made his next move to work with Michael Moir as a cinematographer and later opened his own production company, Califano pictures. Greg was able to work with impressive athletes, musicians, and talented artists, such as Evander Holyfield, Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, Mary Lou Retton, Joe DiMaggio, Pete Rose, Zsa Zsa Gabor, the Who, John Madden, and so many others.
Greg’s success continued as he shifted his focus moving to Massachusetts and opening Volturno, the first A.P.N Neopolitan pizza restaurant in the state. His skill, expertise, and impeccable vision from advertising and cinematography enabled the restaurant to thrive, winning Worcester’s Best New Restaurant and Central Massachusetts’ Best Pizza.
Greg was not only a state champion, successful cinematographer, and restaurateur, but a devoted husband to Elizabeth I. (Bartolotti) Califano; dedicated brother to Alfred Califano and his wife Nancy, Gary Califano and his wife Cindy; selfless father to his four children, Rebecca and her husband Lance Herbert, Gregory Jr. and his wife Jenny Califano, Emily Pincow Califano, and Alfred and his husband Jamie Mangan-Califano; and unconditionally loved “Nonno” to his eight grandchildren, Ella, Renee, Landon, John, Madeleine, Giada, Asher, and Beatrice.
If there was one way to describe Greg, it would be competitive and fiercely committed. No matter what was put in front of him or how he was challenged, Greg was determined to do it well, exceeding all expectations, whether for himself or others. Greg instilled those very values in his family.
Greg is now at peace with his parents Alfred and Suzanne Califano, his brother Arthur “Artie” Califano, and his sister Suzanne “Bunny” Holiday— a reunited party of martinis, scotch, Manhattans, and perfect rice pudding.
There will be a celebration and remembrance of Greg’s life for all family, friends, coworkers, and all those he touched on Wednesday, February 23rd at 4:00 pm at Volturno Restaurant.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Greg’s memory to the American Lung Association at action.lung.org to further research for treatments and cures to these terrible diseases, one that Greg fought courageously and positively until the very end.
Chiampa Funeral Home of Shrewsbury assisted with arrangements.
