William L Abbruzzese

William L. "Bill" Abbruzzese, devoted husband, brother, uncle and friend passed away peacefully surrounded by family Tuesday, September 15th 2015, while exercising at his favorite gathering spot the Westborough YMCA. He was 81 years of age. Bill was born in Worcester; his parents were Anna (Marotta) Abbruzzese, Madonna and Andrew Madonna. He was raised in the Grafton Hill section of Worcester, and joined the U.S. Marine Corps to serving his country during the Korean War for two years. Upon his discharge from service, Bill accepted a position as a shipper/receiver for Colonial Warehouse Distributors where he met Shirley Smith; They dated and on May 31st 1958, they married and began a 57 year marriage of love and devotion, residing in the City of Worcester, Auburn and Westborough for the last 23 years. Besides the Colonial Warehouse Distributors; Bill worked for the Svea Baking Company and the Wilson Beef Company before retiring due to an industrial accident. Bill is survived by his life's love, Shirley; his sister, Angela Madonna-Flynn and her husband James of Worcester, his brother, Robert Abbruzzese and his wife Patricia of Centerville, sisters and brothers in law, Reggie and Beverley Gauthier of Millbury, Bruce and Joan Smith in Florida; Many nieces and nephews Bill treated as his children; extended family members and many friends. Bill was a simple happy man who loved his family, loved his friends and loved all people. He enjoyed making people laugh and smile. Loved to dote on Shirley; He enjoyed cooking, taking care of his home and yard. He was a member of St John's Church and looked forward to the coffee social with his church family and friends after mass. He was a diehard Yankees fan and watched the games whenever he could. Music (especially Frank Sinatra), old movies, reading history and Biography's on notable people. Most of all Shirley was his life and inspiration he was happiest when he was with her. Friends and relatives are invited to a period of calling hours Friday, September 18th from 9 am to 10:30 am at the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. prior to departing in procession to St John's Church, 44 Temple Street where his funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 am. Burial with Marine Corps honors will follow in Notre Dame Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the St John's Church Food Pantry, 40 Temple St. Worcester 01604.