Steven Robert Cancelli

Steven “Steve” Robert Cancelli, 74, died peacefully on Thursday, November 24, 2016 surrounded by his loving family. Steve is survived by his devoted wife of 52 years, Marie (Picard) Cancelli, his three children, David and Karen Cancelli of Worcester MA, and Lisa Cancelli and partner, Peter Simpson of Prides Crossing, MA; his brother, Alfred Cancelli, Jr. of Melrose, MA; and his grandson, Andrew Mercier. Steve is also survived by his extended family, Joan and George Ford of Marstons Mills, MA, Lois and Dick Love of Calabasas, CA, his niece, Lauren Eidt Pearson of Oakham, MA, his nephew, Sean Love of San Francisco, CA, and dear friend, Kevin Cronin of Worcester, MA, whom Steve fondly thought of as his son. Steve is predeceased by his father, Alfred Cancelli, Sr., and his mother, Emmi Brasche, of Worcester, MA.Graduating President of his class in 1962 from Worcester Boys Trade High School, Steve went on to proudly serve his country with the United States Army Reserve as a Sergeant with the 679th AGCO. However, it was no secret that Steve’s lifelong passion was music, beginning his guitar and piano studies at the early of age of 11 with Peter Clemente Sr., John Rhines and Fred Holovnia. Steve taught guitar for over twenty years, privately instructing up to 30 students weekly in his home studio, as well as teaching at St. Mark’s School and the Fay School located in Southborough, MA, and the Perry Conte Studio. To this day, a great many of his former students cite his impact as a teacher and mentor on their own professional careers in music. Steve’s musical career spanned over 50 years, where he performed regularly in the Worcester Jazz scene and beyond. Steve seamlessly balanced his dedication to his craft with his commitment to family. His approach to music mirrored that of his life; disciplined, deliberate, thoughtful, and always with impeccable grace, refined taste and style. Forever humble, Steve will be fondly remembered for his humanity and humility, kind-heart, deep respect and appreciation for history, nature, his love of animals, dry wit and tireless sense of humor. The Cancelli family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the many friends, family, and dedicated caregivers, for their unending love, support and compassion throughout Steve’s life. Calling Hours will be held on Wednesday, November 30, from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester.  His Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, December 1, at 10 a.m. in Saint John’s Church, 44 Temple Street, Worcester (please proceed directly to the church).  Interment at Notre Dame Cemetery, will be held privately. Contributions may be made in Steve Cancelli’s name to FRAXA Research Foundation, Finding a Cure for Fragile X Syndrome, 10 Prince Place, Suite 203, Newburyport, MA, or the Be Like Brit Foundation, 66 Pullman Street, Worcester, MA.