George J Capalbo

George J. Capalbo., a pioneer in radio broadcasting and a lifelong resident of Worcester, passed away Friday, Novermber 8th at The Ichabod Washburn House hospice, with family by his side. He was 86. Mr. Capalbo was the son of the late Rose (Ritacco) and Nicola Capalbo of Worcester and was one of the nation's most respected broadcast engineering executives. Mr. Capalbo was a veteran of the U.S. Navy, serving during WWII as a radio telegraph operator. He had a major influence on Boston radio broadcasting in the 1960s, 1970s and 1980's. George built FM Radio station WAAF in Worcester in 1961, and was Chief Engineer for WRKO in Boston at the time of its launch as a Top 40 station as the 'Big 68' in 1967. He is credited by then GM Mel Phillips with putting together a state-of-the-art broadcast facility for television and radio "from scratch" at 7 Bulfinch Place in Boston, and with developing WRKO's radio automation system. In 1973, Mr. Capalbo was promoted from Chief Engineer of the Boston Radio stations to Vice President Engineering for the RKO Radio Division nationwide, supervising seven AM stations and seven FM stations in major markets including New York City, Chicago and Los Angeles, and later built the RKO Satellite Network, the first radio satellite delivery network. It is relatively unknown that throughout his career behind the scenes he mentored many young broadcasters, giving them advice and opportunities, leaving his industry in a better place. In 2012, George was inducted into the Massachusetts Broadcasters Hall of Fame. Mr. Capalbo is survived by his wife of 55 years Genevieve J (Siminski), son George N, grandson George L, and sister Vera, as well as many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by sister Vita, and brothers Angelo, Charles, Domenic and Leo. Friends and relatives are invited to visit with the family Tuesday, November 12th from 4 pm to 7 pm in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation St. Worcester. His funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. , Wednesday November 13th in the funeraal home. Burial with Military Honors will follow in Notre Dame Cemetery.