John J Martello Sr

John J. Martello, Sr., 93, passed away on Monday, January 13th 2014, at the Knollwood Nursing Center joining his wife Eleanor who passed away in August "Together Forever" in heaven. John was born in Worcester, a son of Italian immigrants Vito and Maria (Grilla) Martello. He grew up off Shrewsbury St in the Italian Neighborhood of Worcester and graduated from Worcester Public Schools. John then joined the U.S. Army to serve his country proudly in the Chemical Corps participating in the battle campaigns of Northern France, Rhineland and Central Europe. Returning home to Worcester, John met and then in 1948, married Eleanor H. Marchese where they spent 65 Happily married years. John worked for the City of Worcester for over 30 plus years in the School Department before retiring. He is survived by his family; His devoted daughter Donna Croteau and her husband Denis with whom he lived; his son John Martello, Jr and his wife Betty of Goodyear Arizona; three grandchildren, Melissa and her husband Nicholas, Michael and John; many nieces, nephews, including Michael Festa, extended family and friends. A sister, Jennie Festa and brother, Anthony Martello pre deceased him. John was a member of Our Lady of Mt Carmel Church, the Eastside Post 201 American Legion, and the Greendale Retired Men's Club. He found much enjoyment in his life oil painting, wood carving, both at home and the West Boylston Senior Center, and traveling extensively in the United States and Europe. Friends and relatives are invited to attend calling hours, Thursday, January 16th from 4 pm to 7 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. Members of the Eastside Post 201 will meet at 6:30 pm in the funeral home to conduct their ritual. His funeral will be held Friday, January 17th from the funeral home with a procession to Our Lady of Mt Carmel Church, 24 Mulberry St where his Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 am. Burial will follow next to his wife in St. John Cemetery. The Martello family would like to thank the Summit Elder Care, Brightstar Health agency and Knollwood Nursing Center for all, the care, comfort and compassion they gave to our Dad.