MSG Henry D Covello

MSG Henry D. "Hank" Covello USArmy (ret), 90, a three war highly decorated veteran, earning four purple hearts and a bronze star among others, passed away Monday, March 3rd 2014 with his dear devoted wife by his side. Hank was born in Worcester a son of Italian immigrants Ralph and Josephine (Pepino) Covello. He grew up in Worcester, attended Worcester public schools then joined the U.S. Army under age prior to WWII. Learning of his actual age, the Army sent him home to Worcester. As soon as World War II broke out, Hank rejoined the service, becoming a paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne Division completing over 400 career parachute jumps. He notably took part in the D-Day invasion of Anzio, the Rhineland and Eastern Europe parachuting into Bastogne during the battle of the bulge where he earned a purple heart for wounds suffered in battle and bronze star for heroism. After WWII, Hank remained a member of the Army earning awards as a member of the 75th Ranger Battalion, and serving as a paratrooper during two combat tours of duty in Korea being wounded three more times and earning three more purple hearts. Hank completed his Army career retiring after 23 years attaining the rank of Master Sergeant as a member of the 18th Airborne Corps at Ft Bragg, NC. during the Vietnam War. Hank then owned and operated a night club in Fayetteville NC; outside FT. Bragg called "Hanks Place" until retiring and moving back home to Worcester, living here ever since. Henry is survived by the love of his life and wife of over 20 years, Isabella M. "Issy" (DiVerdi) Scarcello, Covello; Many nieces, nephews and extended family members, friends and fellow soldiers across the country. Hank was pre deceased by a brother Frank, and four sisters, Vincenza DiDomenco, Margaret Perotto, Sophie Peluso, Christina Luzzo and Helen Perrone. Henry was a member of the 82nd airborne association, the battle of the bulge association, the DAV Chapter #4 in Worcester, the Eastside Post 201 American Legion and the Greendale retired men's clubs. Funerals services were private. Burial with full military honors will be in Arlington National Cemetery. Memorial contributions in his name may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517 Topeka, Kansas 66675. The MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St is honored to assist the family with arrangements.