Joseph John Pellegrino

Joseph “John” Pellegrino, 87, of Grafton, passed away on Friday, May 13, 2016, in his home, surrounded by the love of his family.    John is survived by his devoted wife of fifty years, Charlotte E. (Morris) Pellegrino; a daughter, Deborah J. Pellegrino of Worcester; four sons, Joseph J. Pellegrino, Jr. and his wife Cheri of North Carolina, David Pellegrino and his wife Marie Rose of Sutton, Gary Pellegrino and his wife Merry of West Brookfield, and Timothy Pellegrino and his wife Kim of Florida; eleven grandchildren; three great grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by five brothers and seven sisters, Pepino, Salvatore, Frank, James, Anthony, Rose, Florence, Sophie, Rita, Jeanette, Carmella, and Ruth.  John was born in Worcester, son of Italian immigrants, Antonio and Philomena (Laudone) Pellegrino.    John was what you might call “old school”…he believed that family, integrity, and hard work were everything.  His family was his world and he worked tirelessly as a sheet metal worker and mason to provide a wonderful home.  His sense of pride and perfection showed in all of his home projects and gardens.  He had the largest vegetable garden that he would be cultivating all summer. There wasn't anything he couldn't fix or lend a hand to help.   He was loved by everyone and had the wonderful gift of charisma and wit, allowing him to engage anyone, anywhere, and at any time.  He was always laughing and would light up a room as soon as he walked in.  He was a true role model and a patriarch to his family.  He loved to sit and share memories and stories that would have everyone laughing and we still can sit and remember each and every one.  He will be missed by so many people.   John was a very proud man, wise and honorable.   The love and support we received was a true testament to the life he lived.  He was so very proud of his Italian heritage.  He loved to listen to Italian music especially Frank Sinatra and Eddie Fisher. He was an avid New England Patriots fan.   His family would like to thank all of their family, friends and neighbors for the outpouring of support.  They would also like to thank Dr. Bathini, Dr. Gultawatvichai and their team for the care and compassion they showed John.  Also, the wonderful staff at the VNA hospice.  A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, June 11, at 10 a.m. in Our Lady of Loreto Church, 33 Massasoit Road, Worcester.  There are no calling hours.   In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Friends in Grafton, Inc./Grafton Food Bank, PO Box 324, Grafton, MA 01519   MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, Worcester is honored to assist his family with arrangements.