Arnold R Nuzzetti Sr

Arnold R. Nuzzetti, Sr., 89, of Auburn, formerly of Worcester, passed away Thursday, December 12th 2013, with the family he loved gathered beside him. Arnold was born in Worcester, one of four children of Italian immigrants, Anthony and Camilla (D'Angelo) Nuzzetti. He grew up in the Italian section of Worcester and joined the U.S. Army to serve his country proudly, participating in the battles of New Guinea and Luzon. Upon returning from WWII, Arnold worked as a tile setter before accepting a position as a custodian for the Worcester School Department at Girls Trade where he remained for the next 35 years before retiring. In 1951, Arnold married his true love Mary S. Messina, with whom he shared a wonderful 60 years before she passed away in January 2011. Arnold is survived by his two devoted children, Deborah Nuzzetti-Johnson of Auburn with whom he lived, Arnold R. "Butch" Nuzzetti, Jr. and his wife LeeAnn of Worcester; three granddaughters he adored and who adored him, Melissa, Cara and Brianna; a brother, Ralph "Duke" Nuzzetti and his wife Jean; and a brother-in-law, John Mero; nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. A brother Anthony Jr. and sister Joan Mero predeceased him. His son-in-law, David "Jerry" Johnson, with whom he also lived, passed away 6 months ago. Arnold was a member of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church and the Post 3, Italian American War Veterans where he also served as a cook. In the early 1990's he received the key to the city for his kindness for cooking meals and sending them to the veterans shelters. He was a charming storyteller, bargain shopper, and avid New England sports fan who enjoyed past trips to Saratoga. Arnold looked forward to his weekly chats with his brother-in-law John and his buddy Frankie Soccia. He was a simple, generous man who loved family, honored his friends and would help anyone who asked. The Nuzzetti family would like to extend a special thank you to his nurses Judy and Joanne for all their years of dedication. Friends and relatives are invited to visit with the family Monday, December 16, from 4 pm to 8 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. His funeral will be heldTuesday, December 17th from the funeral home with a Mass at 10:00 am in Our Lady of Mt Carmel Church, 24 Mulberry St. Burial with military honors next to his wife will follow in St. John's Cemetery